There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that comes together in minutes yet feels utterly gourmet. Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast has become one of my go-to recipes, especially when I need a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal on a busy weeknight. This dish is not just simple; it elevates the humble chicken breast with rich butter and aromatic garlic for a flavor experience that’s easy enough for anyone to master in their own kitchen.
What makes this recipe special
You might wonder why you should cook Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast at home when there are countless recipes out there. The truth is, this dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent option for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is quick, hassle-free, and uses ingredients that are often already in your pantry.
It’s also family-approved—kids love the buttery goodness, and adults appreciate the savory garlic flavor. Plus, you can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, which is a win-win for busy weeknights!
“I never knew baked chicken could taste this good! The garlic butter is a game changer.” – A Happy Home Cook
Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Ready to experience this culinary delight? The cooking process is straightforward. First, you’ll gather your ingredients and prepare your oven. Then, you simply mix your garlic butter and coat the chicken before letting the oven do the work. Note that using a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), making it safe and juicy.
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
You can easily swap out the butter for olive oil or even use a blend of spices instead of paprika if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Directions to follow
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Place your chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is coated evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, if desired, and serve.
Best ways to enjoy it
The beauty of Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast lies in its versatility. Serve it with a vibrant side salad for a lighter meal or pair it with roasted vegetables for a heartier option. Some tasty sides include mashed potatoes, quinoa, or steamed broccoli. You can even shred leftover chicken for tacos or salads later in the week!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your delicious leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date to keep track!
Pro chef tips
- If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking to enhance the flavor.
- To amp up the juiciness, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning. This promotes even cooking.
- Don’t skip the paprika! It adds not just color but a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Creative twists
This recipe is a great canvas for different flavors. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or introducing fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in a little cayenne pepper or chili flakes. You can also swap fresh garlic for garlic powder in a pinch, although fresh garlic provides that robust flavor we all love.
Common questions
How long does it take to prep and cook this dish?
Cooking this meal takes approximately 30 minutes, which includes about 5-10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes in the oven.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
You can, but it’s best to thaw them completely before baking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the exterior from overcooking while waiting for the center to heat through.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh parsley?
If parsley isn’t handy, consider using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor or simply omit it.
By following this recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast, you’ll be enjoying a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
PrintGarlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
A gourmet yet simple dish that elevates chicken breasts with rich butter and aromatic garlic, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Place your chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is coated evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, if desired, and serve.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. Consider pounding the chicken breasts to even thickness for more even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
