Description
This garlic butter baked chicken breast recipe is a simple, juicy, and flavorful dish. Coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and baked to perfection, it’s an easy dinner idea for weeknights, meal prepping, or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. - Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. - Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Brush or drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over each piece. - Bake the Chicken
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. - Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- Cheesy Version – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
- Herb-Infused – Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for extra fragrance.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
- Crispy Finish – Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden crust.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Butter Chicken, Baked Chicken Breast, Easy Chicken Recipe, Juicy Chicken, Weeknight Dinner