This yummy garlic butter baked chicken breast is super easy to make! Just toss the chicken with melted butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs for a tasty meal.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss. I love serving it with some rice or veggies for a complete dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, as they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over the saltiness. You can substitute it with olive oil or ghee if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon should do it.
Italian Seasoning: Dried herbs are great for convenience, but fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor beautifully if you have them available.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Turns Out Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is to not overcook it. Start by preheating your oven properly and using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brushing the garlic butter over both sides of the chicken helps to lock in moisture and flavor.
- Let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This lets the juices redistribute and keeps your chicken tender.
- If you’re broiling for a golden finish, keep an eye on it as it can burn quickly! Just a couple of minutes is enough to achieve a nice color.
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 mixed herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So in no time, you’ll have a flavorful, juicy chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking, making it easier to serve later.
2. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed, and you can already smell the delicious garlic aroma!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts in your baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced and not overlapping to ensure they cook properly.
4. Brush On the Flavor:
Using a brush or spoon, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. This will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it cooks.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake the chicken uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
6. Optional Broiling:
If you like a nice golden top, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking. Just be sure to watch closely, as broiling can cause it to brown quickly!
7. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken nice and moist.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish the chicken with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if you’d like. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy your delicious garlic butter baked chicken breast!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful garlic butter baked chicken breast!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before cooking! You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor?
If you want to kick up the flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking. Additionally, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the taste even further!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven to keep it moist. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it juicy while reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and garlic butter mixture ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
