Baked to perfection, this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet elegant dish that bursts with rich, buttery flavors. The garlic-infused butter seeps into the tender chicken, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying. The addition of paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes enhances the taste with a subtle kick of warmth. This dish is incredibly versatile, perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive yet easy dinner, this garlic butter chicken is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup chicken broth
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the seasoned garlic butter mixture over them.
- Add chicken broth to the dish and drizzle lemon juice on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven, spoon some of the pan sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Baked chicken breast can sometimes have a bad reputation for being dry or bland, but this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is anything but! With a simple yet powerful combination of garlic, butter, and herbs, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a juicy, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or a healthy protein-packed dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
- Juicy and Tender Chicken – Thanks to the garlic butter sauce and the baking method, the chicken stays moist and tender, never dry.
- Easy to Make – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples.
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, butter, lemon juice, and seasonings ensures that every bite is rich and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish – You can serve it with various side dishes, shred it for salads, or use it in sandwiches and wraps.
- Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein and low in carbs, this meal is great for a balanced diet.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch in advance and use it throughout the week for different meals.
The Magic of Garlic Butter
Garlic and butter are a match made in culinary heaven. Garlic is well known for its numerous health benefits, including its antibacterial properties, heart health support, and immune-boosting effects. Butter, when used in moderation, adds a luxurious richness to dishes and enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. The garlic butter sauce in this recipe not only keeps the chicken moist but also creates an irresistible aroma and taste. It soaks into the chicken as it bakes, ensuring every bite is infused with deep, savory flavors.
The Secret to a Perfectly Baked Chicken Breast
Many people struggle with baking chicken breast because it can dry out quickly. Here are some expert tips to guarantee perfect results every time:
- Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts – This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from overcooking.
- Do Not Overbake – Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; 165°F (75°C) is the perfect doneness.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, making it even more tender.
- Use a Baking Dish That Holds the Sauce – The chicken should sit in the buttery sauce while baking to absorb maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options:
- Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich buttery sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful meal.
- Rice or Quinoa – These grains soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Pasta – Serve with a simple garlic butter pasta for a restaurant-quality meal.
- Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad balances the richness of the chicken and butter sauce.
A Great Meal Prep Recipe
If you like planning your meals in advance, this recipe is a perfect meal prep option. You can bake multiple chicken breasts at once, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and use them in different ways throughout the week.
How to Use Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Sliced over salads – Adds protein and flavor to any salad.
- Shredded for tacos or wraps – An easy filling for quick lunches.
- Mixed into pasta – Combine with some veggies and extra garlic butter sauce.
- On sandwiches – Layer onto a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato.
- Served with scrambled eggs – A protein-packed breakfast idea.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious!
- High in Protein – Each serving provides a good amount of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Low in Carbs – Suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
- Rich in Healthy Fats – The butter provides healthy fats that support brain function.
- Garlic Benefits – Garlic is known to support the immune system and improve heart health.
- Naturally Gluten-Free – A great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
Customizations & Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Cheesy Goodness – Sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking.
- Herb-Infused – Add rosemary, thyme, or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Version – Mix a little heavy cream into the butter sauce for a richer texture.
- Asian-Inspired – Swap lemon juice for soy sauce and add ginger for an umami-packed dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
- Yes! Bone-in chicken breasts will take longer to cook (about 35-40 minutes), but they will be even juicier.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
3. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
- Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a foolproof recipe that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. The combination of juicy, tender chicken and a rich, garlicky butter sauce makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the easiest and tastiest chicken dishes you’ll ever make!
