This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is juicy and packed with flavor! The garlic and butter mix creates a tasty coating that makes every bite so satisfying.
Honestly, who doesn’t love buttery garlic goodness? I like to serve it with veggies or a fresh salad for a simple, yummy meal everyone will enjoy. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use chicken thighs, but they will take a bit longer to cook.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and is essential for the garlic flavor. If you need a dairy-free meal, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. However, in a pinch, you can use garlic powder; just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Seasonings: The Italian seasoning mix gives a lovely herb flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme from your pantry works just as well!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, follow these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the garlic butter adhere better.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite moist and flavorful.
- If broiling, keep a close watch to prevent burning; it can go from nice and brown to charred quickly!
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 for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook, with a total time of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the butter and seasonings stick nicely to the chicken.
3. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish (or lined with parchment paper). Use a brush or spoon to coat each chicken breast generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring all sides are covered for the best flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked all the way through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want an extra crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping the chicken juicy when sliced.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. You can also serve it with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh flavor!
Enjoy your delicious, flavorful garlic butter baked chicken breast! Perfect for any dinner occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Butter in This Recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil works great as a substitute and maintains the richness. You can also use vegan butter to keep that buttery flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers in the baking dish with the chicken. Just toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper for added flavor. They should cook well within the same timeframe as the chicken!
