Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is my go-to recipe when I want something incredibly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with that rich, garlicky butter creates a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant, but it’s actually super simple to make at home.

I still remember making this recipe after my daughter’s soccer practice on a hectic Wednesday evening. I was exhausted and needed something quick but satisfying. The smell of garlic and butter filling my kitchen instantly lifted my mood, and when I took that first bite of perfectly tender chicken, I knew this would become a regular in my dinner rotation. This garlic butter baked chicken breast delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The buttery garlic sauce seeps into every bite, creating incredibly moist chicken that my whole family requests weekly. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something special without the stress.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

Fresh garlic makes a huge difference in flavor compared to the jarred version, so I always use fresh cloves when making this recipe. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering garlic butter baked chicken breast:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each, about 1 inch thick)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic gives the best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Quick tip: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness if they’re particularly thick. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender throughout.

How to Make This Simple Baked Chicken

Using a meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every single time – it’s the best way to avoid dry, overcooked meat. Here’s how to create this delicious garlic butter baked chicken breast:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for creating tender chicken with a slightly golden exterior without drying it out.

Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture prevents proper browning and keeps seasonings from sticking. Season both sides generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic and parsley. Mix thoroughly until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter. The aroma at this stage is amazing.

Step 4: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece for even cooking. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over each breast, making sure to coat them completely. Use a spoon to drizzle any pooled butter back over the top.

Step 5: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part. Avoid overcooking, as this leads to dry chicken.

Step 6: For a beautiful golden-brown top, switch your oven to broil for the final 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. The butter will bubble and create a gorgeous finish.

Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite of your garlic butter baked chicken breast stays moist and flavorful. Serve with fresh lemon wedges if desired.

Side Dishes That Complete Your Meal

This garlic butter baked chicken breast pairs beautifully with both light and hearty sides. Here are my favorite combinations:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the savory chicken perfectly, and you can use the buttery pan drippings as extra sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans roasted with olive oil add nutrition and color to your plate while balancing the richness of the butter.

Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce, making sure nothing goes to waste.

Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery chicken.

Steamed Asparagus: This elegant side adds a pop of green and works wonderfully for a lighter meal option alongside your garlic butter baked chicken breast.

More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Try

These tender garlic butter baked chicken breasts pair beautifully with other flavorful chicken dishes that bring variety to weeknight dinners. For another simple preparation method, the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast uses a tangy-sweet glaze that complements the buttery garlic flavors perfectly when served together at family gatherings.

When looking for comfort food options, the rich and creamy Creamy Tuscan Chicken makes an elegant pairing with this simple baked chicken for dinner parties. For a completely different flavor profile, the Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken offers sweet and savory notes that work wonderfully alongside garlic butter chicken on a buffet spread. Round out the meal with the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, which shares the same easy baking method while adding a crispy, cheesy coating that creates beautiful texture contrast.

Keeping Your Chicken Fresh and Tasty

Store leftover garlic butter baked chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The butter coating helps keep the meat moist even after refrigeration.

When reheating, warm gently in the microwave at 50% power for 1 to 2 minutes, or place in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth. This prevents the chicken from drying out. Avoid high heat, which can make the meat tough and rubbery.

Chef’s note: Slice leftover chicken and toss it into salads, pasta dishes, or wraps for quick lunches throughout the week. The garlic butter flavor makes everything taste amazing.

Your Questions About This Recipe Answered

Print