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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

A warm, comforting chicken dish featuring a delightful combination of bright flavors and tender meat, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 546
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 10 pieces dark meat chicken pieces (I used drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of any excess fat)
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning blend or any chicken seasoning of choice Bullion works too
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup red onion (minced)
  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat until bubbly.
  2. Add minced onions to the pan and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in chopped parsley and garlic, mixing thoroughly; then add lemon juice and red pepper flakes.
  4. Pour in chicken stock, followed by Parmesan cheese; stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined.
  5. Gently fold in the heavy whipping cream, stirring for about a minute until it reaches a simmer. Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
Cooking
  1. While the sauce cools, season the chicken pieces with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and chicken seasoning.
  2. Carefully pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in a baking dish, making sure to cover all pieces well.
  3. Bake UNCOVERED in a preheated oven at 375°F for 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
  4. Finish by broiling on the skin side until golden brown for a crispy element, then baste with sauce for extra flavor.

Notes

Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite succulent. For variations, consider adding vegetables or changing seasonings to suit your taste.