This garlic butter baked chicken breast is juicy and bursting with flavor! The buttery garlic sauce is simple yet so tasty, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Just mix the garlic and butter, coat the chicken, and bake! I often serve it with veggies or rice for a full meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and can add more flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the base of the garlic sauce. You can substitute with olive oil for a healthier option, but it will change the flavor slightly. For a vegan version, try using vegan butter or coconut oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but use half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds warmth to the chicken. If you don’t have it, mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme in equal parts for a homemade version.
Paprika: This gives a nice color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika can add a little extra depth. If you prefer less spice, you can skip it altogether.
How Do I Get My Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
To ensure your chicken remains juicy and packed with flavor, follow these tips:
- Start by patting the chicken dry; this helps the butter mixture stick better.
- Generously brush the garlic butter sauce all over the chicken for maximum flavor.
- Baking the chicken uncovered helps it brown on top, creating a delicious crust.
- Checking the internal temperature is crucial. Use a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you can have a delicious meal ready in roughly 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, you can prepare your chicken, so you’ll be ready to go!
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will coat your chicken with all that yummy flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. Place the chicken in a greased baking dish or one lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat each chicken breast with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to cover all sides to ensure every bite is flavorful!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a nice golden color or a cooked internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results!
6. Broil for a Finishing Touch:
If you want an extra crispy and golden top, switch your oven to broil and broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if you like a zesty touch!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy garlic butter baked chicken breasts!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great for this recipe. They may take a few extra minutes to cook, so be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
What Sides Go Well with This Dish?
This garlic butter baked chicken pairs nicely with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
