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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: A Simple Family Favorite

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a comforting dish combining zesty lemon, buttery richness, and tender chicken, making it a family favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Dark Meat Chicken Pieces (Drumsticks and thighs) Yields the juiciest results.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Montreal Chicken Seasoning Adds depth.
For the Marinade
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Best for controlling saltiness.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for robust aroma.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for non-spicy version.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Introduces mild smokiness.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Red Onion Adds a touch of sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Flat Leaf Parsley Brings brightness.
For the Liquid
  • 1 cup Chicken Stock Provides a flavorful base.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Essential for zesty brightness.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Adds creamy richness.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Complements each bite with nutty flavor.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, Montreal chicken seasoning, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until well blended.
  3. Coat the dark meat chicken pieces in the marinade thoroughly. Transfer to a baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle minced red onion over the chicken. Pour chicken stock and fresh lemon juice into the baking dish. Scatter fresh parsley on top.
  5. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the marinated chicken.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes until fork-tender.
  7. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow browning.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 38gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before marinating for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer for doneness.

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