This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is juicy and full of flavor! With simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and herbs, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Who wouldn’t enjoy tender chicken smothered in rich garlic butter? I like to serve it with some veggies or rice, and it’s ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. If you prefer darker meat, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives great flavor. If you want a lighter option, use ghee or a plant-based buttery spread instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the quantity since powdered garlic is stronger.
Thyme and Parsley: Dried herbs work perfectly, but fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor. If you’re out of thyme, use oregano or basil as a substitute.
Paprika: This adds a nice color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika can add a deeper flavor, or you can omit it for a simpler taste.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist and tender, there are a few key steps to follow:
- Pat the chicken dry: This helps the seasoning stick and allows for a nice sear.
- Sear the chicken: Browning on the stove before baking locks in flavor and juices.
- Rest after baking: Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove it from the oven right when it reaches 165°F (75°C) to prevent it from drying out.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley), chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus about 20 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal that will surely impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and comes out perfectly juicy.
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor and color.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, and parsley. This flavorful mixture will infuse the chicken with aromatic goodness.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This gives the chicken a lovely crust!
5. Add the Garlic Butter:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. The melted butter will help keep the chicken moist while baking.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it tender.
8. Serve:
Serve your Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If your chicken is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method—seal it in a bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Substitute the Butter with Olive Oil or Other Oils?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or even ghee. While it will slightly change the flavor, it will still keep the chicken moist and delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but try to avoid overheating, as this can make the chicken tough.
What Are Some Good Sides to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
