Chicken With Lemon And Butter Sauce
Juicy chicken pieces baked with a fragrant lemon and butter sauce, perfect for those who enjoy bright, savory flavors in a comforting main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F.
- Arrange pieces of chicken evenly in a large baking dish.
- Place one pat of butter on each piece of chicken, with two pats on the breasts.
- Squeeze both lemons over the chicken.
- Sprinkle lightly with sweet basil, salt, and pepper.
- Turn down the oven temperature to 425°F.
- Bake for 1 hour until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using herb-infused butter or adding minced garlic to the butter. If you don't have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works as a substitute, but fresh juice will yield the best results. Sweet basil can be replaced with oregano or thyme for a different herb profile. This dish is similar to American recipes like 'Baked Chicken Or Swiss Steak' in its simplicity and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. It also complements well with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Lemon And Butter Sauce contains roughly 51 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg 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 chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time based on the parts you use. Thighs and drumsticks generally take about 45-50 minutes at 425°F. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I do if I don't have sweet basil?
If sweet basil is unavailable, you can substitute with dried oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill could also work, adding a fresh element to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can prepare and bake it ahead of time. Just portion out the chicken and sides into containers, and reheat as needed. It retains its flavor well when stored properly.
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).