Marie'S Lemon Butter Chicken
Juicy lemon butter chicken features tender pieces baked in a flavorful lemon-garlic butter sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with bright, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the chicken pieces with the juice of one lemon.
- Mix melted margarine, juice of one lemon, and garlic salt together.
- Pour the lemon butter mixture over the chicken pieces.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon juice and garlic salt for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute butter for margarine if preferred, or use olive oil for a lighter option. If you're looking for a twist, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the lemon butter mixture, similar to what's found in Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Butter Chicken with a side of Amazing Rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great accompaniments. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Zucchini Vichyssoise for a refreshing contrast. Garnish the dish with fresh lemon slices or herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on a low setting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Lemon Butter Chicken contains roughly 150 calories, with 7g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter—approximately 30-40 minutes depending on the size. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I do if I don't have fresh lemons?
If fresh lemons are unavailable, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. However, fresh lemons will provide a brighter flavor. Adjust the amount to taste, typically 2-3 tablespoons of bottled juice equals the juice of one lemon.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken with the lemon butter mixture, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
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).