Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here's a complete recipe to make this mouthwatering dish:
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
**Variations:**
* **Lemon-Herb Butter Chicken:** Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary or oregano to the butter mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
* **Spicy Lemon Garlic Chicken:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the butter mixture for an extra kick.
* **Lemon-Capers Chicken:** Add 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained, to the butter mixture for a salty, tangy flavor.
* **Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken:** Add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half to the butter mixture for a richer, creamier sauce.
**Cooking Steps:**
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Spread the garlic-lemon butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips for Correct Cooking Techniques:**
* **Don't overmix the butter mixture:** Mix the butter and garlic-lemon juice just until they come together in a smooth paste. Overmixing can result in a tough, rubbery butter sauce.
* **Pat dry the chicken:** Gently pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before applying the garlic-lemon butter mixture. This will help the sauce adhere better and prevent a soggy texture.
* **Don't overcrowd the baking sheet:** Make sure to leave about 1 inch of space between each chicken breast to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
* **Let the chicken rest:** Let the chicken breasts rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
**Additional Tips and Variations:**
* **Use high-quality lemons:** Fresh, organic lemons will give your dish a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
* **Add some acidity:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors of the dish, but be careful not to overdo it – too much acidity can overpower the other flavors.
* **Experiment with different herbs:** Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add unique flavors and aromas to the dish.
* **Try different cooking methods:** For a crispy skin and juicy interior, pan-sear the chicken breasts in a skillet with some olive oil and then finish them in the oven.
By following this recipe and using these tips and variations, you'll be able to make a delicious and flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
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