Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken 🍋🐔

This delightful Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is a quick and easy dinner option that's bursting with flavor! It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you're looking to impress guests with minimal effort. The combination of lemon and butter creates a tangy sauce that keeps the chicken surprisingly moist and tender. Serve it alongside rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal! 🌿🍚

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup Italian salad dressing
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 chicken tenderloins
• Lemon pepper, to taste
• Garlic salt, to taste
• Onion powder, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the butter in a 9x9 inch baking dish and melt it in the oven.
3. Remove the dish from the oven and mix in the Italian salad dressing, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.

🍽️ For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before coating the chicken.

4. Arrange the chicken tenderloins in the baking dish, making sure to coat them well with the melted butter mixture.
5. Season both sides of the chicken with lemon pepper, garlic salt, and onion powder, then sprinkle with lemon zest.

🌱 Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish even more; simply toss them in with the chicken before baking.

6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken juices run clear and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Tips & Tricks

• Make it a one-pan meal: Add chopped vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus to the dish before baking for a nutritious boost.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great in salads or wraps!
• Grilling option: You can also grill the chicken! Marinate the tenderloins in the mixture for a couple of hours and cook them on a preheated grill until done.

Variations

• Herb-infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter and lemon mixture for an aromatic twist. 🌿
• Spicy kick: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for a bit of heat! 🌶️
• Honey lemon: Drizzle a tablespoon of honey into the mixture for a sweet balance to the tangy lemon. 🍯

Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful dish with your loved ones—it’s bound to become a family favorite! 🎉