Butter-Lemon Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts glazed in a buttery lemon sauce with fragrant garlic and poultry seasoning, perfect for a flavorful, family-friendly meal served over rice or alone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken in a lightly greased 12 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Combine lemon juice, melted butter, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper; pour over chicken.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 1 hour or until chicken is tender, basting frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture. If you don't have poultry seasoning, a mix of dried thyme and sage works well. You can also substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result. Make sure to baste the chicken every 20 minutes for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Butter-Lemon Chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting addition, consider serving with Chicken Noodle Soup With Dumplings to create a hearty dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter-Lemon Chicken contains roughly 141 calories, with 7g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you use them frozen, increase the baking time to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of butter in this recipe?
You can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Olive oil can also work, but it will change the flavor profile slightly, offering a different taste experience.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the butter mixture. You can also serve the chicken with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
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).