Creamy, juicy, and bursting with garlic flavor, this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but takes almost no effort.
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time40 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 2servings
Equipment
Oven
Skillet
Baking Dish
Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
Ingredients
2piecesChicken breasts, boneless and skinlessPatted dry
4tablespoonsButter, unsaltedMelted
4clovesGarlicMinced
SaltTo taste
PepperTo taste
1teaspoonDried thymeOptional, crushed between fingers
1teaspoonDried parsleyOptional, or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
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.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle thyme and parsley if using.
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.
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).
Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 2 months.