Discover the Joy of Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast Today!

Introduction to Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to weeknight cooking, and this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe checks all the boxes. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can treat your family to a delicious, flavor-packed chicken dish that’s sure to become a new weeknight staple. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and rich, creamy butter creates a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Table of Contents

Ingredients Breakdown

The key ingredients in this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, unsalted butter, fresh garlic, and a blend of dried herbs. The unsalted butter provides a luxurious, velvety texture, while the garlic and herbs like thyme and rosemary infuse the chicken with incredible depth of flavor. Don’t forget to season the chicken generously with salt and pepper – it’s the foundation that allows all the other flavors to shine.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple yet delicious process of preparing this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
3. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
4. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
5. Add Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
6. Arrange Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour Sauce: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Baste (Optional): Halfway through the cooking time, you can baste the chicken with the butter sauce using a spoon for added flavor.
10. Garnish: Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken before serving.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To ensure your Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips and tricks:

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – this is the foundation that allows the other flavors to shine.
• Baste for Extra Flavor: Basting the chicken with the garlic butter sauce halfway through cooking adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety and juicy results.
• Pair with Delicious Sides: This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Health Benefits of Garlic and Herbs

Not only is this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast incredibly delicious, but the key ingredients also offer some impressive health benefits. Garlic is a well-known superfood, packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and immune-boosting compounds. The dried herbs, like thyme and rosemary, also contribute their own unique nutritional profiles, providing a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support overall health.

Variations and Modifications

While this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is already a crowd-pleasing dish, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Add Vegetables: Toss some diced potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts in the baking dish alongside the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
• Try Different Herbs: Experiment with other dried herbs like oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it Keto-Friendly: Swap the all-purpose flour for a low-carb alternative like almond flour or coconut flour to keep this dish keto-friendly.
• Adjust for Dairy Restrictions: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil, for a lactose-free option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in advance. You can season the chicken and prepare the garlic butter mixture up to a day ahead. Simply cover the marinated chicken in the baking dish and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat the oven and bake it according to the recipe instructions. This method can save time on busy weeknights and ensure that the flavors have time to meld.

What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy while baking?

To ensure the chicken stays juicy while baking, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, basting the chicken with the garlic butter halfway through cooking can help maintain moisture. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are of uniform thickness will also promote even cooking, which prevents some pieces from drying out while others are still undercooked.

Can I substitute the butter in the recipe for a healthier option?

Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with healthier alternatives if you prefer. Options include using olive oil or avocado oil, which can provide a similar richness while offering healthier fats. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly. If you still want to maintain a buttery taste, consider using a butter substitute that mimics the flavor of butter while being lower in calories or fat.

How can I adjust the recipe for larger servings?

To adjust the Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe for larger servings, you can simply increase the number of chicken breasts and proportionally increase the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the additional chicken, and consider extending the baking time slightly, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure all pieces are cooked thoroughly. It’s best to arrange the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves

Conclusion

Elevate your weeknight meal routine with this incredibly easy and delicious Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and rich, creamy butter creates a flavor sensation that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With minimal prep and hands-off baking, this dish is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want a wholesome, satisfying meal. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible aromas and flavors of this easy, garlic-infused chicken masterpiece.

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