Description: This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed, juicy, and incredibly satisfying main course. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The aromatic garlic butter sauce infuses the chicken with rich, savory goodness, making it a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-8 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (high-quality butter enhances the flavor significantly)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is always best for a bolder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 teaspoons of fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (adjust according to your preference; start with 1/2 teaspoon of each)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional, but highly recommended for a bright finish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and maintains its juiciness. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated for accurate temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes for easier cleanup. A glass or ceramic baking dish works well. Select a dish that is large enough to accommodate the chicken breasts in a single layer, without them overlapping.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures uniform cooking, preventing some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the chicken to brown better in the oven. Excess moisture will create steam, rather than browning.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The butter should be completely melted to ensure even distribution of the garlic and herbs. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or rosemary.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken: Place the prepared chicken breasts in the baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Use a spoon or your hands to spread the mixture around so that the entire surface of each chicken breast is covered. For an extra layer of flavor, consider gently rubbing the garlic butter mixture into the chicken breast.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately check the temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, being careful not to touch the bone. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Step 7: Serve: Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving. The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the garlic butter beautifully. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Simplicity: It requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor: The garlic butter sauce creates a rich, savory flavor that elevates the chicken to a restaurant-quality dish.
- Versatility: It pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to pasta or rice.
- Healthy: Chicken breast is a lean protein source, making this a relatively healthy and satisfying meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild, comforting flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair it with a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Serve over pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Make a chicken breast sandwich with toasted bread and your favorite toppings.
Tips:
- Marinating: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the refrigerator before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply.
- Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Consider adding paprika, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.
- Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Broiling for Browning: For an extra golden-brown crust, broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 35-40 g
- Sodium: 200-300 mg (depending on salt added)
Conclusion:
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple recipe to impress your guests, this chicken breast recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own, and remember to always cook the chicken to a safe internal temperature for the best results. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about the Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s crucial to thaw them completely before cooking. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight is the safest method. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until fully thawed. Make sure the chicken is completely thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
Q2: What can I do if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?
A2: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. However, keep in mind that garlic powder has a different flavor profile than fresh garlic, so you may need to adjust the amount. As a general guideline, use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic. While it won’t have the same robust, pungent flavor as fresh garlic, it will still provide a nice garlic flavor to the dish.
Q3: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while baking?
A3: To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and remove it from the oven when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness also helps them cook more evenly and prevent drying. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
Q4: Can I add cheese to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Adding cheese can elevate this recipe to another level of deliciousness. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese over the chicken during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy crust that complements the garlic butter flavor perfectly.
Q5: Is there a way to make this recipe even healthier?
A5: Yes, there are several ways to make this recipe even healthier. You can use olive oil instead of butter to reduce the saturated fat content. You can also increase the amount of herbs and spices to boost the flavor without adding extra salt or fat. Serving the chicken with plenty of vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or a fresh salad, will also make it a more nutritious and balanced meal. Additionally, ensure you choose organic, free-range chicken breast, where possible, for a healthy and ethically raised animal.
