How to Make Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Chicken dishes have always been a favorite among many food enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for something simple and quick or a more elaborate meal, chicken is incredibly versatile. This article will guide you through making a delicious and easy lemon garlic butter chicken that can be prepared within 30 minutes and serves four people.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup butter (unsalted)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Preparation:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with two tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer on an oiled baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake for about 20 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the butter sauce by melting half of the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic to the melted butter. Allow it to cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
6. Pour lemon juice and zest into the mixture while stirring continuously. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat once done.
7. Once the chicken is fully cooked, take it out of the oven. Pour the lemon garlic butter over the top of each piece of chicken. Alternatively, you can transfer all pieces to a large plate and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired for extra flavor.
8. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes before serving so that the juices settle back into the meat.

Tips & Variations:

• If you prefer a creamier sauce, add half-and-half towards the end of cooking time when adding lemon zest and juice.
• For extra flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results. Thighs also take slightly longer to cook, so plan your timing accordingly; they might need 25-30 minutes rather than 20.
• To make this dish healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with a heart-healthy alternative like olive oil or cooking spray.

Conclusion:

Lemon garlic butter chicken is an easy yet exquisite dinner option that suits various tastes and dietary preferences. Its unique combination of lemon, garlic, and tender chicken pieces creates a perfect balance between savory and tangy flavors. This recipe serves four individuals beautifully, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

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p>Enjoy your homemade meal!