This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is quick to make and bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken is wrapped in tasty garlic butter that keeps it moist and delicious.
The best part? You just pop it in the oven, and then you get to enjoy the wonderful smell filling your kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay moist. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer a lighter option, try olive oil or ghee, which adds a different flavor but still keeps the chicken juicy.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really makes this dish pop. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, using about 1 teaspoon as a substitute, though fresh is best for flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds great flavor! If you don’t have it, mix your own using dried basil, oregano, and thyme or just use whatever dried herbs you like best. Italian cooking is flexible!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken moist and tasty, here are some key tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the butter mixture stick better.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken after it comes out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute so it stays tender.
- Check the doneness with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Basting the chicken halfway through baking with the melted garlic butter adds more flavor and keeps it moist.
Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. After all is said and done, in just about 35 minutes, you’ll have delicious, juicy garlic butter baked chicken breasts ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First thing’s first: preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is combined and fragrant — this is the magic butter that will make your chicken shine!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps them get a nice sear. Place the chicken in your prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly so they cook well.
4. Apply the Garlic Butter:
Using a brush or a spoon, coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure every inch of the chicken is covered for maximum flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Slice into the chicken to check that juices run clear — this means it’s perfectly cooked!
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you like a little crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly turn from perfect to burnt.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the chicken even juicier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it up and enjoy your flavorful, juicy garlic butter baked chicken breasts!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag in cold water before following the recipe. Cooking from frozen will take about 50% longer, so adjust bake time as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and use the microwave or reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Try serving it over rice, pasta, or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter. For a lighter option, a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad works great too!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and coat the chicken breasts a few hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
