This easy garlic butter baked chicken breast is super simple and packed with flavor! Just buttery goodness, garlic, and juicy chicken come together for a tasty meal.
I love that it only takes a few ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Serve it with veggies or rice, and you’ve got a yummy dinner in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they might take a bit longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the salt levels. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, feel free to use olive oil, which will add a nice flavor, too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/2 teaspoon instead.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning adds great flavor. For a personal touch, you can mix your favorite herbs or even add a splash of lemon juice for some zing.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Here are some steps to help you get perfectly baked chicken:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (74°C) is your target.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Bringing everything together, this dish is simple but still a crowd-pleaser, with delicious garlic butter flavor and tender chicken. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Adding a few minutes to let the chicken rest after baking makes the total time around 35-40 minutes. You’ll love how quickly this hearty meal comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve tender, juicy chicken with a nice golden finish.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a single layer in a baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
3. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This garlic butter mix is the secret to delicious flavor!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Use a spoon or brush to make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for around 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on your chicken. It’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want a golden top, switch your oven to broil for 2-3 minutes after the chicken is done baking. Watch it closely to avoid burning!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious, juicy garlic butter baked chicken breast warm. It pairs perfectly with veggies, rice, or a salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your tasty creation!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before baking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method—placing them in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Substitute the Butter for a Healthier Option?
Absolutely! You can swap out the unsalted butter for olive oil or avocado oil. This will give a slight variation in flavor, but it’ll still taste delicious while being a bit healthier.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet until heated all the way through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers to the baking dish. Just make sure they’re cut into pieces similar in size to the chicken breasts for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add a lot of veggies.
