Baked Chicken With Lemon
Juicy baked chicken infused with lemon and seasoned with savory spices, perfect for a flavorful and easy family dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic salt, onion salt, melted butter, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Baste the chicken with the lemon butter sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty kick, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the lemon butter sauce. If you don't have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. Be sure to baste the chicken every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easter Potatoes for a hearty dinner. For a complete experience, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any leftover lemon butter sauce. A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the moisture and flavor. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken With Lemon contains roughly 27 calories, with 3g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 640mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and moisture. Just be mindful that the skin may get crispy while baking, so adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don't have lemon juice, lime juice can be a great substitute for a different citrus flavor. Alternatively, you can use vinegar, such as white wine or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will be less bright. Adjust the quantity to taste.
How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check if the chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).