Mouthwatering Baked Lemon Butter Chicken for Family Feasts

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that marries zesty lemon with rich butter, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 45

Resting Time 5

Total Time 2 5

Servings: 4 pieces

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds Dark Meat Chicken Pieces (thighs and drumsticks) The star of this dish; thighs and drumsticks provide rich flavor and tenderness.
1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor balance; adjust based on your taste preferences.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds depth and a subtle smokiness; substitute with regular paprika if desired.
1 tablespoon Montreal Chicken Seasoning Infuses a savory herbaceous flavor; can be replaced with any chicken seasoning blend.

For the Marinade

1/2 cup Butter Brings richness and moisture; using unsalted helps control seasoning.
1 medium Red Onion Offers sweetness and depth; yellow onion is a good substitute.
4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced is best for aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adds heat and flavor complexity; omit if desired.

For Cooking

1 cup Chicken Stock Acts as the cooking liquid; low-sodium is recommended.
1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Provides acidity and brightness; fresh juice is preferable.

For Topping

1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds creaminess and umami; ensure it’s freshly grated.
1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Gives a creamy texture; can be omitted for a lighter option.

For Garnish (Optional)

2 tablespoons Flat Leaf Parsley Adds freshness and color; it’s optional.

Equipment

Baking Dish
large bowl

Method

Baking Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together kosher salt, smoked paprika, Montreal chicken seasoning, melted butter, minced red onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Rub the marinade evenly over the dark meat chicken pieces, letting it soak in for extra flavor.
Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and pour in the chicken stock followed by the fresh lemon juice.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving; garnish with flat-leaf parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 32gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate the chicken a day in advance for enhanced flavor. Pair with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.

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