This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a real treat! Juicy chicken slathered in buttery garlic goodness makes every bite pure happiness. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!
Who doesn’t love a dish that fills the house with a yummy smell? I always make a little extra for leftovers—believe me, they taste even better on a salad the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re short on time, you can use chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and stay juicier during cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to since it lets you control the salt level. If you need a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute; both work great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you have garlic powder, you can substitute about 1 teaspoon for every clove. Just note that the fresh stuff brings a sparkle to the dish.
Italian Seasoning: Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand. It adds a nice herbal touch — adjust to taste!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but there are a few steps to keep them nice and juicy:
- PAT DRY: Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps the skin sear better and keeps it from becoming rubbery.
- BRUSH WITH GARLIC BUTTER: Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken generously. This adds richness and flavor.
- MIND THE OVEN TIME: Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- LET IT REST: Resting after baking allows juices to redistribute. Avoid slicing too soon to keep that moisture in!
With these tips, you can make perfectly cooked garlic butter baked chicken every time!
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, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 20-25 minutes to bake. Including resting time, you’ll need around 35 minutes in total. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This makes sure your chicken cooks evenly and helps it get that nice golden color!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your oven is heating up, pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This helps the garlic butter stick better and ensures a lovely texture. Place them in your greased or parchment-lined baking dish, making sure they’re spaced apart.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the star of the dish, adding great flavor and moisture!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Using a brush or spoon, generously apply the garlic butter mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy—this is where all that delicious flavor comes in!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
6. Optional Broil for Goldenness:
If you want an extra touch, you can switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning—this will give your chicken a nice golden finish!
7. 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 each bite even more juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you like, serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish!
Dig in and enjoy this flavorful and moist garlic butter baked chicken with your favorite sides. It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take an extra 5-10 minutes to reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The flavors will still be delicious, and it will work beautifully with the garlic and seasonings!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance, covering it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just allow the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. It also works beautifully over rice or pasta to soak up all that tasty garlic butter sauce!
