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Juicy baked chicken breast glistening with garlic butter sauce, ready to showcase the recipe's deliciousness.

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

This recipe unlocks the secret to incredibly juicy and flavorful baked chicken breast. Infused with a rich garlic butter, this easy-to-follow method guarantees tender chicken every time, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • small bowl
  • whisk or fork
  • Plastic wrap or ziplock bag
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Meat Thermometer
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create the garlic butter.
  3. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large ziplock bag.
  4. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  5. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat (optional searing step).
  7. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. If not searing, place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  9. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring every part is covered.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
  11. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For optimal juiciness, avoid overcooking the chicken. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Resting the chicken after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful outcome. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake or pan-fry with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. You can also prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Add shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy variation.