When I think of comfort food recipes, this baked lemon butter chicken is always the first that comes to mind. The way the butter melts into the pan, mingling with garlic and lemon juice, creates a sauce so good you’ll want to dip bread right in it. I’ve made this dish on hectic weeknights, and it has never failed me. The crispy edges of the chicken thighs with that tangy citrus flavor feel like a hug on a plate. Sometimes I swap chicken breasts for thighs if that’s what I have, and honestly both versions taste amazing. The flavor is bright and rich at the same time, which makes it perfect for family dinners when you want something filling but not heavy. If you’re a fan of lemon butter chicken, then you already know the smell of it baking is half the joy. My kids usually show up in the kitchen long before dinner, asking when it’s ready. Whether you’re searching for a new lemon butter chicken recipe, curious about baked chicken recipes that lean into fresh citrus flavors, or just craving some healthy comfort food recipes, this one delivers. I love serving it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that buttery sauce. Leftovers? Rarely happen. And if they do, they’re even better the next day because the chicken has had more time to soak up that lemony garlic goodness.