There's something utterly comforting about the smell of baked lemon butter chicken filling your kitchen. The bright citrus mingles with rich, golden butter and savory herbs to create an aroma that promises a cozy, satisfying meal.

This recipe became a weeknight staple in our home during one especially busy spring. I needed something fast, flavorful, and foolproof—and this dish delivered. It’s now one of those go-to dinners we make when we want something that feels special without requiring much effort.

Let me show you why this easy lemon butter chicken will quickly earn a place in your regular dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Get ready for a dish that checks every box: simple prep, big flavor, and family-approved. This baked lemon butter chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s a true kitchen lifesaver.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples and a baking dish. Just mix, pour, and bake—no complicated steps, no babysitting the stove.

It’s also quick. From start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when takeout is tempting but you want something homemade.

This chicken dish is budget-friendly, too. Using affordable ingredients like boneless chicken thighs, lemon juice, and garlic, you’ll get a meal that tastes restaurant-worthy at a fraction of the cost.

And finally, it’s versatile. Pair it with rice, pasta, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad. You can even slice the chicken and stuff it into wraps for an easy lunch the next day.

If you’re looking for a reliable recipe that delivers on flavor and simplicity, keep reading—this one’s for you.

Ingredients Notes

What makes this baked lemon butter chicken so flavorful is how each ingredient complements the others. You don’t need a long list—just the right elements, balanced beautifully.

Let’s start with the chicken. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. They stay juicy through baking and soak up all that lemon butter like a dream. That said, chicken breasts work too—just be sure not to overbake them.

The butter is where the magic happens. It creates a silky, golden sauce that coats the chicken in richness. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning, and melt it gently so it doesn’t brown before you’re ready.

Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the butter. You’ll want the juice of at least two large lemons, plus a little zest if you love that extra citrus pop. Bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, but fresh really makes the dish shine.

Garlic is essential. Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor—it infuses the butter and gives every bite a subtle heat and depth.

Finally, don’t skip the Italian seasoning. A simple blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme ties everything together. You can also sprinkle in a touch of paprika for warmth or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

All you need in terms of equipment is a good-sized baking dish (9x13 works perfectly), a small saucepan for melting butter, and a citrus juicer if you have one on hand.

How To Make This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Making this dish is a breeze, and the end result is tender, buttery chicken infused with lemony goodness. Let me walk you through each step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray, and arrange your chicken thighs in a single layer inside.

Next, prepare your lemon butter sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant, not browned.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour this flavorful mixture evenly over the chicken in the baking dish, making sure each piece is well coated.

At this point, you can add a few lemon slices on top for extra aroma and presentation. Then, cover the baking dish loosely with foil and place it in the oven.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, then remove the foil and spoon some of the buttery sauce over the chicken. Return to the oven uncovered for another 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes every bite even more flavorful. Serve it with extra pan sauce spooned over the top—it’s pure comfort on a plate.

Storage Options

Leftovers? You’re in luck—this chicken keeps beautifully and reheats like a dream.

Let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce may solidify a bit due to the butter, but it will melt back into deliciousness when reheated.

You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing the chicken in individual portions with a bit of sauce in each one, so you can defrost only what you need.

To reheat, warm in the microwave with a spoonful of water or extra lemon juice to refresh the sauce. Or reheat in a covered baking dish at 325°F until hot—about 15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this lemon butter chicken is how flexible it is—you can change it up to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

Want to add veggies? Toss some asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or sliced zucchini into the baking dish with the chicken. They’ll roast beautifully in the sauce and come out tender and flavorful.

For a dairy-free version, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter. You’ll miss a bit of that rich flavor, but the lemon and garlic still carry the dish beautifully.

If you prefer chicken breasts, simply cut them in half lengthwise for faster cooking. Just watch your baking time closely, as they dry out more easily than thighs.

Craving a creamier version? Stir a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese into the melted butter mixture before pouring it over the chicken. It creates a luscious, velvety sauce.

You can even go bold with seasonings—add smoked paprika, cumin, or even a bit of grated parmesan over the top before baking. Don’t be afraid to get creative!