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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen to lift your spirits after a long day. This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe not only captures that warmth but makes it incredibly easy to enjoy at home. This dish is your answer to a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, tender chicken, perfectly seasoned and enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce that leaves you wanting more.

Whether you’re preparing a soothing weeknight meal or gearing up for meal prep, this recipe delivers on all fronts. I love serving this alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it versatile enough to suit any occasion. Plus, it’s low-carb, giving you a delicious yet guilt-free option to indulge in. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will turn your kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering flavors!

Why is Garlic Butter Chicken Breast so special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone in the kitchen.

Irresistible Flavor: A delightful marriage of garlic and butter creates a sauce that transforms every bite into a flavor explosion.

Juicy Perfection: Each chicken breast emerges tender and succulent, ensuring satisfaction with every mouthful.

Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted asparagus or a fresh salad for a complete meal or use it as meal prep for the week ahead.

Low-Carb Friendly: With only 1g of carbs per serving, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the guilt.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Garlic Butter Chicken Breast Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – Lean protein that cooks quickly and remains tender when baked; feel free to substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor control; don’t use salted butter to prevent overpowering the dish.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is essential for an aromatic flavor; avoid pre-minced alternatives for the best taste.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing to achieve a golden exterior, enhancing flavor and texture.

For Seasoning
• Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings to elevate the chicken’s natural flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Paprika – Adds color and mild flavor; consider using smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses the garlic butter sauce with herbal notes; feel free to swap in your favorite herbs for variation.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and vibrancy; it’s perfect for presentation and enhancing flavors.

This Garlic Butter Chicken Breast is all about simplicity, irresistible flavor, and juicy perfection!

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Breast

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that the chicken bakes evenly and comes out perfectly juicy.
Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken breast with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This step adds a base layer of flavor to the chicken.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. This creates a lovely crust that locks in moisture.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a bowl, mix melted unsalted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chopped fresh parsley. Pour this vibrant mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet, letting it soak into the meat.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce bubbling.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest briefly. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor before serving.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra parsley for an appealing touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Breast

Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy; ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F prevents dryness and guarantees juicy results.
Avoid Overcooking: Monitor baking time closely; the garlic butter sauce retains moisture, but overcooking can still lead to dry chicken.
Sear Best: Create a golden crust by properly searing the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side; this locks in flavors and enhances texture for your Garlic Butter Chicken Breast.
Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preferences or experiment with different herbs to complement the rich garlic butter sauce.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after baking; this will help redistribute juices for an even more succulent experience.

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Breast

Fridge: Store leftover garlic butter chicken breast in an airtight container for up to 4 days to retain its moistness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to three months. Shredding the chicken beforehand makes it easy to use in future meals.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave on medium power, or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Preparation for Meal Prep: Consider portioning out leftovers into individual servings for quick, easy lunches throughout the week.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?

Imagine dining at home, surrounded by the enticing aroma of garlic and butter, while savoring your perfectly cooked chicken. Let’s create a delightful meal that complements the main dish beautifully!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich creaminess balances the savory chicken, creating comfort in every bite. A dollop of garlic butter on top adds harmonious flavor.
Roasted Asparagus: This vibrant green side offers a crisp texture and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich chicken, adding freshness to your plate.
Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic, these tender beans enhance the garlic buttery theme while offering a crunchy contrast to the juicy chicken.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the garlic butter sauce, providing a light, fluffy base that supports your chicken’s rich flavors beautifully.
Broccoli Salad: A refreshing, crunchy option with a tangy dressing that cuts through the richness of the chicken, adding balance to your meal.
Crisp Garden Salad: The cool, crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing add a refreshing element, lightening the meal and enhancing overall enjoyment.
Rosé Wine: A glass of chilled rosé can elevate the dining experience, its fruity notes complementing the savory flavors of the chicken perfectly.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a fluffy, rich dessert to finish off the meal. Its sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory chicken, leaving you satisfied.

Garlic Butter Chicken Breast Variations

Feeling adventurous in the kitchen? Let’s explore delicious ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer, juicier texture that pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce.
Herb Infusion: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh thyme or rosemary to create a fragrant twist that elevates the sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a delightful heat that warms the palate.
Lemon Zest: Introduce bright flavors by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the garlic butter mixture—this adds a fresh zing that complements the richness beautifully.
Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a salty, savory crust that enhances every bite.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic by doubling the amount used in the butter sauce for an extra aromatic experience that those who adore garlic will relish.
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with toasted sesame oil before serving for a unique, nutty dimension that pairs surprisingly well with garlic and butter.
Vegetarian Option: Use the same garlic butter sauce to coat hearty portobello mushrooms, creating a satisfying, vegetarian alternative bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flavors meld beautifully. Simply store the seared chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pour the chilled sauce over the chicken and bake as directed—no need to thaw! This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures that your dinner is just as delicious, making it a breeze to serve a homemade meal that will delight your family!

Garlic Butter Chicken Breast Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are plump and have a uniform color without any dark spots or excessive fat. Fresh chicken should feel moist but not slimy. Checking for firmness is key; if it feels too soft, it may not be the freshest option.

How should I store leftovers from Garlic Butter Chicken Breast?
Very easy! Store your leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Breast?
Sure thing! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to three months. I recommend shredding the chicken before freezing, as it’ll make reheating easier for future meals, like chicken salads or sandwiches.

What should I do if my chicken breast turns out dry or overcooked?
It’s disappointing, but it can happen! If you find your chicken is a bit dry, try shredding it and mixing it with some of the leftover garlic butter sauce to add moisture. Next time, use an instant-read thermometer to take the chicken off the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F. Also, covering the dish with foil while baking, if it’s browning too quickly, can help maintain moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for people with food allergies?
Certainly! The basic recipe is quite simple and mostly consists of chicken and garlic; however, if you’re concerned about allergies, always double-check the ingredients like butter and spices. If anyone has a dairy allergy, consider substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as olive oil or a vegan butter spread.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Breast besides vegetables?
The more the merrier! This chicken pairs beautifully not just with roasted vegetables but also with starchy sides like mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You could also incorporate it into wraps or burrito bowls for a different twist in your meal prep.