Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a fantastic dish that combines succulent chicken breast with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. The combination creates tender, juicy meat that’s not only satisfying but also indulgently flavorful. Imagine taking a bite of perfectly seasoned chicken that has the warmth of melted butter soaking into each juicy morsel, lightly kissed by aromatic garlic. This dish becomes a true celebration of basic, wholesome ingredients transforming into a delightful main course.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

I remember the first time I whipped up Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast on a busy weeknight. It was one of those days when I’d forgotten to plan something elaborate, and all I had on hand was some chicken breasts and a few pantry staples. Little did I know, this simple dish would become a family favorite! Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious, I found myself making it again and again. Trust me, once you give it a try, it may just become your go-to recipe for dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Takes just about 45 minutes from start to finish, perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
Irresistible Flavor: The garlic and butter meld beautifully, delivering a savory and fragrant dish that appeals to all taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Crispy, golden edges combined with freshly chopped parsley give this meal a lovely presentation.
Flexible Serving: Great for a cozy family dinner or impressive enough for entertaining friends.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easy to adapt for gluten-free diets by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for even cooking; you can also substitute with thighs for a richer flavor.
4 tablespoons butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning, or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic creates a robust flavor; jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch but lacks the same freshness.
1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a hint of smokiness and a vibrant color; smoked paprika elevates this dish even more.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor; sea salt and freshly ground black pepper are recommended.
Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshness; feel free to substitute with basil or chives.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect cooking temperature for our chicken, allowing it to become crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted and bubbling, add in 4 cloves of minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—taking care not to let the garlic burn.

Prepare the Chicken: Grab a baking dish and arrange the 4 chicken breasts inside. Pour the fragrant garlic butter over each piece of chicken, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.

Season Generously: Next, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of paprika evenly over the chicken along with salt and pepper to taste. This seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also creates an inviting aroma while baking.

Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the chicken bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden edges and ensure the chicken is cooked through—juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Garnish & Serve: After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. This is the perfect touch to elevate your Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast!

Storing & Reheating

To store your Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. These will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through; you can splash a bit of chicken broth on it to help retain moisture. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly after freezing, so refreshing it with a drizzle of garlic butter during reheating can help restore some of that original flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking: Always check your chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Let it rest: After baking, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting helps retain juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Elevate the flavor: Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of your favorite herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Chicken thickness matters: If the breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
Make ahead: You can prepare and season the chicken ahead of time and let it marinate in the fridge for a couple of hours to enhance the taste.

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is not just a recipe but an experience to cherish around the table. It invites you to savor each moment as you enjoy it—the tender chicken, the delightful aroma filling your home, and the comforting familiarity of a well-loved dish. Don’t hesitate to switch it up with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant salad, making each meal a chance to experiment. This dish is an open canvas for your culinary creativity, so enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re pressed for time. Ensure they are cooked to the proper temperature for safety and optimal flavor.

How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to know your chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. When it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part, you’re good to go! Additionally, the juices should run clear when cut.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the garlic butter in advance. Marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mix for a few hours in the fridge for deeper flavor, then just bake it whenever you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides—from roasted vegetables or a light salad to creamy mashed potatoes or rice. The beauty lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize the meal to your liking.

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Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: No Data
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: 101|Main Dishes
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

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Description

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast. This easy-to-make dish features succulent chicken breasts smothered in garlic butter and spices, perfect for a quick dinner or a delightful weekday meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken breasts
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
salt and pepper to taste
fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter over them.
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper on top.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Chicken can be marinated for 30 minutes for enhanced taste.
Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.