Name: Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (Patted dry); 4 tablespoons Butter, unsalted (Melted); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced); Salt (To taste); Pepper (To taste); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (Optional, crushed between fingers); 1 teaspoon Dried parsley (Optional, or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for garnish)

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Creamy, juicy, and bursting with garlic flavor — this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but takes almost no effort. A golden, buttery sauce soaks into tender chicken breasts while the garlic sings through every bite, giving you comfort-food vibes without the fuss. Fun fact: roasting chicken with butter and garlic has roots in classic European home kitchens where simple pantry staples were transformed into unforgettable meals. If you love easy, reliable dinners that please a crowd, this is your new go-to.

This recipe stands out because it’s simple, quick, and wildly family-friendly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and for home cooks who want big flavor with minimal fuss. If you’ve enjoyed other quick chicken dishes on the blog, check out this helpful deep dive into the technique in our garlic butter baked chicken breast guide to learn extra tips and variations. Ready to get the oven on? Let’s make dinner delicious.

What is Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?

What exactly is Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast? In plain terms, it’s chicken breasts baked in a luscious garlic-infused butter sauce until tender and slightly golden. Sounds simple, right? But who knew four ingredients could produce such comfort? Was it named by a chef who loved garlic more than the average human should, or a home cook who realized the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach and decided to test it on date night? Either way, the name says it all: garlic + butter + baked chicken = pure happiness. Try it once and you’ll understand why the name stuck — and then go share it with someone special.

Why You’ll Love This

This dish is irresistible for three main reasons:

Flavor highlight: The garlic butter sauce melts into the chicken, creating rich, savory bites with a slightly sweet, roasted finish. The aroma alone makes the kitchen feel cozy and inviting.
Cost-saving and practical: Buying a couple of chicken breasts and pantry staples like butter and garlic is budget-friendly. You get a restaurant-style meal without expensive ingredients or takeout fees.
Versatile toppings and add-ins: Sprinkle fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a handful of grated Parmesan for an instant upgrade. The simple base pairs beautifully with many flavors.

If you enjoy other quick chicken recipes, you might also like a similar take on garlic butter chicken that swaps herbs and cooking methods — explore that option at a related garlic butter chicken recipe. Now, grab your skillet and let’s get baking.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent, juicy results. The technique is straightforward: sear garlic in butter to release flavor, season the chicken well, pour the buttery garlic over the breasts, and bake until just cooked through. You’ll enjoy a creamy sauce, tender texture, and a slightly crisped exterior if you leave the chicken uncovered. Prep time is short and cleanup is minimal.

Approximate time: 10 minutes prep + 25–30 minutes baking = 35–40 minutes total.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, patted dry
4 tablespoons butter, unsalted, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional), crushed between fingers
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional), or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center so the chicken cooks evenly.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the butter sauce cling and encourages a pleasant outer texture.
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned — you want the garlic soft and aromatic, not bitter.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle thyme and parsley if using. Press the seasonings lightly so they stick.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish or ovenproof skillet in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken so the tops and sides are coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want a lightly browned top, switch on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting keeps the juices locked in and makes for juicier slices.
Slice or serve whole, spooning any buttery garlic sauce from the pan over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon, if desired.

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

What to Serve With

Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta — both soak up the buttery sauce beautifully.
Roasted seasonal vegetables (asparagus, carrots, or green beans) for color and crunch.
A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir pairs nicely if you enjoy wine with dinner.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Even thickness: Pound the thicker end of the breast to a more uniform thickness so it cooks evenly.
Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to hit 165°F (75°C). Pull it out a few degrees early if you prefer slightly juicier results — carryover heat will finish it.
Garlic care: Avoid browning the garlic in the skillet; browned garlic becomes bitter. Soft, fragrant garlic yields the best sauce.
Butter alternatives: Use half butter and half olive oil if you want a slightly lighter flavor and higher smoke point.
Herbs and citrus: Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon after baking brighten the dish instantly.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying. Add a splash of butter or a teaspoon of water to keep the sauce moist while reheating.
Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes — boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and are even more forgiving. Reduce baking time slightly and check for doneness.

Is it safe to eat chicken at 165°F (75°C)?
Yes. The recommended safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a thermometer in the thickest part of the breast.

Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and refrigerate it briefly, then melt and pour it over the chicken before baking. Fresh garlic flavor is best, however.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté minced garlic just until fragrant (30–60 seconds). If it browns, discard and start again with fresh garlic and a lower heat.

Can I add cream or cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely. Stir in a splash of cream or a tablespoon of grated Parmesan after baking for a richer, creamier finish.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a reliable, comforting recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort — perfect for busy families and simple dinners that still impress. If you want to compare approaches or try a slightly different garlic butter method, check out this alternative take at Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter Sauce! Tender & Delicious. For another home cook’s version with helpful tips and photos, see Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast – The Cooking Jar. Try the recipe tonight and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and hard to forget.