Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that has earned its place in my weeknight dinner rotation. With its buttery garlic goodness enveloping tender chicken, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, prepping for company, or simply treating yourself, this dish shines in its versatility and ease, making it a must-try for any home cook.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are many reasons to give Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast a spot on your dinner table. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. Additionally, the ingredients are budget-friendly and readily available, so you won’t have to make an extra trip to the store.
Imagine coming home after a long day, and with just a few simple steps, you have a delicious dinner ready to enjoy in under an hour! This dish is not only renowned for its taste but also receives high praise from family members, especially children, who tend to gravitate toward the buttery flavor. It’s perfect for pairing with various sides, ensuring that you can put together a wholesome meal easily.
"I made this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken last week, and it was a hit with my kids! The garlic flavor was just perfect!" — A delighted home cook.
The cooking process explained
Creating this delightful dish is straightforward, and it all comes together in a few simple steps. You’ll start by preheating your oven and preparing the garlic butter mixture before seasoning the chicken breasts. After coating the chicken in that aromatic blend, it’s time to bake! In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s colorful and bursting with flavor.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a mouthwatering dinner:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Feel free to omit the parsley if you don’t have any on hand, or substitute it with other fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Meanwhile, take a baking dish and place your seasoned chicken breasts; generously season them with salt and pepper.
- Pour that luscious garlic butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is juicy yet safe to eat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for presentation and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zesty flair.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it alongside a fresh salad and roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or go classic with mashed potatoes and green beans. You could also shred the chicken and incorporate it into tacos or pasta dishes for a fun twist. For a comforting touch, pair it with a side of buttery rice or fluffy couscous.
The best way to save extras
Leftover garlic butter chicken can be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just make sure to wrap it tightly for freshness. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking. You can pound them gently to achieve this.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mix for a couple of hours or overnight before baking.
- Consider using a meat thermometer to accurately check for doneness. This avoids overcooking, leading to a dry chicken.
Creative twists
Feel free to play around with this base recipe! Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter for a gourmet touch. Try incorporating chili flakes for a little heat, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before baking for a cheesy finish. You can also swap out the butter for olive oil for a lighter version or use herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor.
Common questions
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
It typically takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook, making it an efficient meal choice for weeknights.
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken breasts will give you a richer flavor and crispy skin but may require a longer cooking time.
What can I replace the butter with?
For a healthier version, substitute the butter with olive oil, or try ghee for a lactose-free option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! Just store portions in the fridge and reheat as needed during the week, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
With this approach, you’ll not only enjoy a satisfying dish, but you’ll also feel confident in your cooking prowess. Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is undeniably a recipe worth sharing and enjoying!
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Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender chicken coated in buttery garlic goodness, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and generously season them with salt and pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Ensure uniform thickness of chicken breasts for even cooking. Consider marinating in the garlic butter mix for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American