This easy garlic butter baked chicken breast is juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-simple! Just slather on some garlic butter, and let the oven do the hard work for you.
You’ll love how the smell fills your kitchen while it bakes. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! I like to serve it with veggies for a quick, tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs would work well, adding a bit more flavor and moisture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the seasoning. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try olive oil instead. It won’t have the same richness but will provide a nice flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, just sprinkle it straight on!
Italian Seasoning: This mix adds great flavor, but you can swap it out for your favorite herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even just plain salt and pepper, if that’s what you have.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist and tasty, follow these key steps:
- Don’t overbake it! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps. Remove it promptly once it hits this temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice more tender.
- Brush both sides with the garlic butter mixture thoroughly to lock in moisture while it cooks.
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 dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. With such a quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so that everything is nicely blended and aromatic!
3. Arrange the Chicken Breasts:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure they have some space around them for even cooking.
4. Add the Garlic Butter:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of each chicken breast with the garlic butter mixture. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor comes from!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh parsley for a beautiful touch, and serve it with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor if you like. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter baked chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but it’s important to fully thaw the chicken before baking for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for faster results. Avoid cooking frozen chicken directly, as it may not cook evenly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
This recipe is naturally low in carbs, but to keep it even lighter, you can skip serving it with grains. Instead, pair the chicken with a side of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or a fresh salad to stay low-carb while still enjoying a delicious meal!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of extra butter or broth to keep it moist if necessary.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish along with the chicken. Just toss them in the garlic butter mixture as well, and they should cook nicely alongside the chicken for a complete meal!
