This easy garlic butter baked chicken breast is a winner! Juicy, tender chicken is covered in a buttery garlic sauce that fills your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this dish! Just season the chicken, pour on the garlic butter, and bake. It’s perfect for busy nights or impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the seasoning. If you need a dairy-free version, substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Both will still yield a flavorful result!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Just use 1 teaspoon of it instead of fresh garlic.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds great depth. If you don’t have it on hand, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a homemade blend that works well.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely touch. If you don’t have any, you can skip it, or try another fresh herb like thyme or basil for garnish.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking the chicken to perfection is key! Here are steps to ensure your chicken comes out juicy every time:
- Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps the seasoning stick and encourages browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This takes the guesswork out and ensures the chicken is fully cooked without being dry.
- If you decide to broil, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. It only needs a short time!
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite moist and flavorful.
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
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in around 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot, perfect for baking the chicken evenly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Then, season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Make sure to coat them well so every bite is flavorful!
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Mix them together well, as this will create a lovely garlic butter sauce to pour over the chicken.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated in that delicious sauce. This is where the magic happens!
5. Cooking Time:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
6. Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you want a golden color, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Let It Rest & Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely finish before serving.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful garlic butter baked chicken breasts! It’s a perfect dish for any night of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water in a sealed plastic bag. Make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry to promote even cooking and browning.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for the 4 cloves of fresh garlic. Just mix it into the melted butter instead of mincing fresh garlic.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through to maintain flavor and moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Store the seasoned chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
