This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a real winner! Juicy chicken is coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite burst with flavor. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both simple and tasty? I often cook this chicken when I want something quick that still feels special. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you have thighs on hand, they will work too and add more juiciness.
Butter: I use unsalted butter as it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder. Just adjust the amount to about 1 teaspoon for this recipe.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is fantastic, but you can create your own! Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you prefer. You could even use fresh herbs if you have them.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
Getting tender and juicy chicken is all about the cooking process. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Let the chicken breasts rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook them at a high temperature (400°F) to get a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture before slicing.
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 paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in around 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and juicy chicken dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure your chicken gets a nice, golden color and a tasty crust. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until it’s evenly blended. This buttery goodness will give your chicken an amazing flavor!
3. Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish:
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish, laying them in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly.
4. Apply the Garlic Butter:
Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure to coat them well, as this is where the flavor comes from!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. To check if they’re fully cooked, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you like your chicken with a little extra color, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn!
7. Let It Rest:
After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious garlic butter baked chicken warm, alongside steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking! The best way to thaw is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge the sealed chicken in cold water until thawed. Just remember to pat them dry before applying the garlic butter for a nice sear!
How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Cooked Through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is properly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken, and make sure there’s no pink meat remaining.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and coat the chicken breasts ahead of time. Just store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions! This makes meal prep super easy.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also slice it up and toss it in salads or pasta dishes for a quick meal!
