Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast: Succulent, Buttery, and Irresistibly Flavorful 🍗🧈🔥

1. Introduction

Looking for a quick, easy, and mouthwatering chicken dish that will impress your family or guests? This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe is your perfect solution! We’ve perfected this dish to create juicy, tender chicken infused with rich garlic butter flavors and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. If you love chicken recipes as much as we do, be sure to check out our collection of chicken recipes for more delicious ideas.

2. Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this flavorful dish (most of which you probably already have in your pantry!):

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for that rich, velvety texture)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (fresh is best for maximum flavor)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds wonderful depth)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or substitute with rosemary for variation)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (Italian seasoning works too)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for that beautiful green garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)

For more delicious chicken recipes with simple ingredients, try our Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers copycat recipe or this comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) – this moderate temperature ensures even cooking without drying out the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels (this crucial step helps achieve perfect browning). If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness (about 1 inch) for consistent cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano – don’t be shy with the seasoning!

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat (you don’t want to brown it). Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (your kitchen will smell amazing!). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter (if it starts browning, remove from heat immediately). Remove from heat and set aside – this simple sauce is what makes this dish extraordinary! For another delicious garlic-infused chicken recipe, check out our Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken in a Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil (a 9×13 inch dish works perfectly). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the dish, ensuring they aren’t touching (this allows for proper air circulation and even cooking). Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly (use a brush if needed to distribute evenly). For more baked chicken inspiration, you might enjoy our Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (timing may vary based on thickness), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer (this is the key to perfectly cooked chicken). For extra browning and texture, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning). Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes (this allows juices to redistribute). Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re looking for more oven-baked recipes, try our perfect Roast Beef Tenderloin.

4. Serving Suggestions

This garlic butter baked chicken breast is incredibly versatile! For a complete meal, pair it with:

• Roasted vegetables (asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts work beautifully)
• Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice
• Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• For low-carb options: cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
• Crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce

For more comforting meal ideas, check out our Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup or Tomato Tortellini Soup.

5. Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating:

• Oven method: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes (cover with foil to prevent drying)
• Stovetop method: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth
• Microwave: 1-2 minutes on medium power (place a damp paper towel over the chicken to retain moisture)

6. Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper
• Lemon Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before baking and add lemon zest to the butter
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking
• Herb Variations: Try fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme and oregano
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter alternative

For another delicious garlic butter chicken variation, check out this external recipe from Primavera Kitchen that uses a slightly different technique.

7. Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors and techniques:

• The garlic butter creates a rich, savory flavor that penetrates the chicken
• Baking at 375°F ensures gentle, even cooking without drying out the meat
• The quick broil at the end creates a beautiful golden crust
• Resting the chicken after baking allows juices to redistribute
• The simple seasoning blend enhances without overpowering the natural chicken flavor

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to 35-40 minutes as thighs typically take longer to cook. The higher fat content in thighs makes them especially juicy when baked with garlic butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You have two great options for meal prep:

1. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours before baking
2. Cook completely, then refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve

The flavors actually deepen when allowed to marinate overnight!

How do I prevent dry chicken?

Follow these pro tips for perfectly juicy chicken every time:

• Use a meat thermometer – remove at exactly 165°F (74°C)
• Don’t overcook – chicken continues cooking while resting
• Choose similar-sized breasts for even cooking
• Brine the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking (1 tbsp salt per cup of water)

9. Conclusion

This garlic butter baked chicken breast recipe is truly a game-changer for home cooks. It transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that’s:

• Incredibly flavorful with minimal effort
• Perfect for weeknights yet impressive enough for company
• Versatile enough to pair with countless sides
• Adaptable to various dietary preferences

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. The rich garlic butter sauce elevates simple chicken breasts to restaurant-quality status, proving that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. Try it tonight and discover why this has become one of our most requested diner-style recipes!

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