Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast: A Juicy and Flavorful Delight
If you’re craving a simple yet delicious meal, Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is the perfect dish. This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter with tender, juicy chicken breast, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this easy recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s quick and requires just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
For more chicken recipes and easy weeknight meals, be sure to check out Chicken Recipe Collection and Quick Dinner Ideas.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. - Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. - Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the butter mixture adhere better and ensure crispy edges. Rub a small amount of olive oil on each chicken breast, then season with salt and pepper. - Pour the Garlic Butter Mixture
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the chicken. - 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) and the juices run clear. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. - Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Advanced Techniques
To take your Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast to the next level, consider these advanced tips and techniques:
Add a Crispy Finish
For a perfectly crispy skin, sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with butter before baking. This will create a beautiful golden crust. Once seared, transfer the chicken to the oven to finish baking through.
Infuse Extra Flavors
Enhance the garlic butter with additional flavors like lemon zest, a splash of white wine, or a few dashes of hot sauce. These will add brightness and depth to the dish.
Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts
Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts can add even more flavor and moisture. You will need to adjust the baking time to account for the bone-in chicken, typically increasing it by 10-15 minutes.
Stuff the Chicken
For a more indulgent meal, try stuffing the chicken breasts with ingredients like spinach, cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking. This will create a flavorful pocket of stuffing in each bite.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storing Leftovers
After serving, store any leftover Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before storing it to preserve its flavor and texture.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat, place the leftover chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating, but the oven will help keep the chicken from becoming dry.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken
To freeze, wrap the chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, and then bake as directed until heated through.
Air Fryer Maintenance
If you use an air fryer to cook the chicken, make sure to clean the air fryer basket and tray after each use. Use warm soapy water and let it dry thoroughly to maintain the appliance’s performance and hygiene.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast can be easily adapted for different dietary needs:
Dairy-Free Version
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the butter for dairy-free butter or coconut oil. You can also use a dairy-free cheese (like almond cheese) if you decide to stuff the chicken.
Gluten-Free Version
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t require any breading or flour. Just make sure to check any seasoning packets or ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free.
Low-Carb and Keto
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a great low-carb and keto-friendly option. Just ensure that your side dishes are also low in carbs, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Paleo Version
For a paleo-friendly version, use grass-fed butter and ensure all spices and ingredients are natural and free of any additives or preservatives.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe as they are more flavorful and juicy. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs might need a little longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
2. Can I make this recipe without garlic?
If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can substitute it with shallots or onions for a different flavor. You could also use a store-bought seasoning blend without garlic.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done baking?
The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and season the chicken breasts ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to meld together, making the dish even more flavorful.
5. Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts for added flavor. If you do, you may want to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the skin crisps up perfectly.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that anyone can make, even on a busy weeknight. The garlic butter creates a savory and rich sauce that seeps into the chicken, making each bite juicy and tender. Whether you choose to serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, this dish will be a hit at the dinner table.