This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is juicy and full of flavor. Simple to make, it only takes a few ingredients to create a delicious meal that everyone will love!
I like to pair it with some veggies for a colorful plate. One bite, and you’ll see why garlic and butter are the ultimate duo—it’s like a flavor party in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They are lean and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might swap in chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. You could use olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free alternative. Just remember, it won’t give the same rich flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about 1/8 tsp per clove needed.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you don’t have it, dried parsley will work too, though fresh is always my favorite for that vibrant taste. Thyme can be substituted with oregano or Italian seasoning.
Paprika: This adds a mild smokiness. If you like a bit of heat, consider smoked paprika or even cayenne for a kick!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Tender?
Keeping chicken moist while baking can be tricky, but a few simple steps help! First, well-season the chicken before baking by coating it generously with the garlic butter mix.
- Consider brining your chicken briefly in a mix of salt and water for an hour before cooking. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Basting halfway through baking keeps the chicken juicy, so don’t skip that step. It’s important!
- Let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes after pulling it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tastier bite.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes of baking time. In total, you should expect to spend about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a simple and quick meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and reach that delicious golden-brown finish.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it well so all the flavors blend together nicely.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. This will add tons of flavor to your chicken!
4. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also baste the chicken with the butter sauce halfway through to keep it moist and flavorful.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in. If you’d like, serve the chicken with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter baked chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method: place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Pat dry before proceeding with the recipe for the best results!
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Parsley?
If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, dried parsley works in a pinch! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley instead. Alternatively, you can substitute with fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, or warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or a little extra butter can help keep it moist during reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus to the baking dish along with the chicken. Just toss them in the garlic butter mixture and ensure they’re spread evenly. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the vegetable type and size.
