This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is super juicy and full of flavor! With just a few ingredients like garlic, butter, and herbs, it’s a simple dish that everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist that buttery garlic smell wafting from the oven? I like to serve it with veggies or rice to soak up all that deliciousness—because who doesn’t want extra flavor on their plate? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here! If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a great substitute—they’re juicier and have more flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt level in the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try olive oil or avocado oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish a powerful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work too; about 1 teaspoon should do.
Italian Seasoning: You can mix your own dried herbs if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand. Just combine dried basil, oregano, and thyme to taste.
Paprika: This adds a lovely color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika would give it a deeper flavor, so consider that swap if you like a smoky touch!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Moist Chicken?
To keep your chicken breasts juicy, follow these tips:
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the chicken at 165°F (74°C) to prevent drying out.
- Brushing the garlic butter mixture on the chicken helps keep it moist and flavorful during baking.
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 (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in just about 35 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will keep your chicken deliciously moist!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Place your chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish or a lined one. Take that delicious garlic butter mixture and brush each chicken breast generously, making sure you’re coating every side for maximum flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees it’s perfectly cooked!
5. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you want a little extra crispiness, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Just watch it closely to avoid burning!
6. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, allow your chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping your chicken juicy and tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy your tasty, juicy garlic butter baked chicken breasts!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Just ensure they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, garlic powder is a good alternative! Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Note that the flavor will be milder.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve With Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce. A fresh salad would complement it nicely too!
