This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a tasty and simple dish. It features tender chicken drenched in buttery garlic goodness, making it super inviting even for picky eaters!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just season, bake, and enjoy! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without any fuss. Pair it with veggies for a complete dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a must for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as they may need a bit longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if substituting.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning is great for flavor, but you can use your favorite herbs. Try thyme, rosemary, or a mix of herbs you enjoy. Fresh herbs also add a nice touch if you have them!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Are Tender and Juicy?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy, the drying step is crucial. Patting them dry prevents steaming in the oven and helps the garlic butter mix stick nicely. Avoid overcooking the chicken; aim for that internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Start by preheating your oven for consistent cooking.
- Pushing the chicken down with a spatula while cooking helps those juices stay inside.
- If you’re unsure about doneness, using a meat thermometer can assure perfectly cooked chicken.
Finally, letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness!
Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, plus a few extra minutes for resting after baking. Overall, you can enjoy a wonderful garlic butter chicken in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will bake evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps remove extra moisture, allowing the seasonings and garlic butter to stick nicely to the chicken.
3. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded to cook evenly.
5. Apply the Garlic Butter:
Generously brush both sides of each chicken breast with the garlic butter mixture. Get every nook and cranny for maximum flavor! 😊
6. Bake the Chicken:
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the breasts.
7. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you’d like a golden color and a bit of crispness, you can broil the chicken for just 1-2 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken even juicier.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh chopped parsley, and if you like, serve it with lemon wedges for a bright flavor. Enjoy your tender, flavorful garlic butter baked chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them completely first. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Once thawed, patted dry before seasoning and baking as instructed.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’d like a healthier option, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Both options will still give you a delicious flavor, but olive oil offers a lighter taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and brush it onto the chicken breasts a few hours ahead. Store the seasoned chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can elevate the flavors even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
