Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter

Name: Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy a succulent and flavorful baked chicken breast with a rich garlic butter sauce that is both easy to make and delicious.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-24T18:42:36.322Z

This baked chicken breast recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the addition of garlic butter, it elevates the flavors to a whole new level.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken with a rich, buttery flavor
Simple ingredients that create a gourmet dish
Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings

      

The Magic of Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is a classic flavor combination that elevates any dish, and this baked chicken breast recipe is no exception. The rich, creamy texture of the butter combines harmoniously with the aromatic garlic, creating a sauce that infuses each bite of chicken with incredible taste. This simple yet effective blend not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a touch of indulgence to a healthy meal.

Using fresh garlic in the butter not only imbues the chicken with its robust flavor but also provides numerous health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system. When you bake chicken with garlic butter, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re also giving your body a nutritious boost.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This baked chicken breast with garlic butter is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish fits the bill. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any meal.

Additionally, the recipe is easy to scale up or down based on your needs. If you want to feed a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips for the Juiciest Chicken

To achieve the juiciest chicken breasts, it's essential to avoid overcooking them. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure that your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without drying out. Start checking the temperature a few minutes before the recommended cooking time to avoid over-drying.

Another tip is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moisture-rich chicken that’s bursting with flavor. A simple step can make a significant difference in the overall quality of your dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your baked chicken breast with garlic butter:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your baked chicken breast:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the garlic butter

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake the chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious baked chicken breast with garlic butter!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover garlic butter chicken, you're in for a treat! Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, flavorful chicken throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can warm the chicken in the microwave for a quick meal, or for the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the chicken's moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This baked chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The creamy garlic butter sauce is perfect for drizzling over your sides, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a more Mediterranean flair, serve the chicken with a side of couscous or quinoa mixed with roasted vegetables. This not only adds a delightful flavor contrast but also provides a nutritious balance to your meal.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the garlic butter for a refreshing citrus kick. Alternatively, you can incorporate different herbs like basil or oregano to switch up the flavor profile.

For a spicy twist, try adding red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. This gives the dish a little heat, creating a delightful contrast to the rich butter. Experimenting with different seasonings and flavors will keep this recipe exciting every time you make it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well but may require a longer cooking time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze baked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze baked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.