Description
This is that warm, buttery, lemony chicken dish your soul’s been craving. We’re talking juicy chicken thighs baked in a silky lemon-garlic butter sauce that’s rich but light, tangy but smooth, and basically a hug in casserole form. Serve it with fluffy rice, crusty bread, or roasted veggies and thank yourself later.
Ingredients
Main Players:
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, whatever’s your vibe)
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup butter (unsalted, melted)
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional but highly recommended)
Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Scene: Get your oven going at 400°F (200°C).
Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels (crispy skin, people!). Season all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Sear for Glory (Optional but Worth It): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken skin-side down for 2–3 mins until golden. Flip and sear the other side for a minute.
Butter Bath: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, zest, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Bake It Up: Place chicken in a baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce all over it. Tuck in some fresh herbs and lemon slices.
Into the Oven: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until chicken hits 165°F internally and is golden on top. Spoon sauce over the chicken before serving — oh yes.
Notes
Use boneless thighs or breasts for a leaner twist.
• Add capers or olives for a Mediterranean punch.
• Sub half the lemon juice with white wine for a fancy flair.
• Toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes before baking for a veggie boost
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~450 per serving
- Protein: 28g