Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Recipe

Few things are as comforting as a simple, flavorful chicken dish that comes together quickly, yet tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is exactly that. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection, and ready in just about 40 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or any time you crave a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter with the aromatic notes of Italian seasoning and paprika. The result is a golden, tender chicken dish that’s both elegant enough to impress and simple enough for everyday meals. Whether paired with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is a surefire hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just over 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Juicy & Flavorful: Garlic butter keeps the chicken moist while infusing it with incredible flavor.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a no-fuss dinner.
• Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from vegetables to grains.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Simple yet impressive, perfect for family meals or small gatherings.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people and is organized by component for clarity.

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Garlic Butter Mixture

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish successfully, gather the following items:

• Baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or brush for spreading garlic butter
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and a perfectly golden chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine:

• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix until well combined. The garlic and seasonings will infuse the butter with rich aroma and flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. You can also use a brush or spoon to spread the mixture for even coverage.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) and the juices should run clear.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may need to bake for a few extra minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds color but also a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich garlic butter flavor. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Garlic Flavor: Mince an additional clove or two of garlic and add it to the butter mixture.
• Herb Variations: Swap Italian seasoning with thyme, rosemary, or a blend of fresh herbs.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for subtle heat.
• Cheese Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top of the chicken before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Make It Juicier: Marinate the chicken in garlic butter for 30–60 minutes before baking.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is rich, buttery, and aromatic:

• Garlic: Provides a savory, pungent depth that infuses the chicken.
• Butter: Adds richness and keeps the meat moist.
• Italian Seasoning & Paprika: Give the chicken a subtle smoky and herby flavor.
• Parsley: Adds freshness and balances the richness.

Suggested Side Dishes

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, carrots)
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• Rice pilaf or couscous
• A fresh green salad with light vinaigrette

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	430 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	1 g
Fat	33 g
Fiber	0 g

Dietary Notes:

• Gluten-free and nut-free.
• Can be adapted for low-sodium diets by reducing salt.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare Garlic Butter Ahead: Mix butter, garlic, and seasonings in advance for quick assembly.
• Marinate for Moisture: Let chicken sit in garlic butter for 30–60 minutes to deepen flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain moisture; avoid microwaving if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust baking time accordingly to ensure doneness.

Q2: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: You can prepare the garlic butter and coat the chicken ahead of time, then bake just before serving.

Q3: How do I prevent garlic from burning?
A: Use minced garlic mixed into melted butter. The butter protects the garlic during baking.

Q4: Can this recipe be doubled?
A: Yes, use a larger baking dish or bake in two separate dishes to avoid overcrowding.

Q5: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it suitable for ketogenic diets.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Ingredients	10 mins
Mix Garlic Butter	5 mins
Coat Chicken	2 mins
Bake	25–30 mins
Total	~40 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Plate chicken with a drizzle of leftover garlic butter from the baking dish.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Slice the chicken diagonally for a restaurant-style presentation.

Recipe Variations

1. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Add juice of half a lemon to the butter mixture for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
2. Parmesan Crusted Version: Sprinkle Parmesan on top before baking for a golden crust.
3. Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
4. Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil to the butter mixture for aromatic variation.

Ingredient Spotlight

Garlic

• Selection: Fresh garlic cloves provide stronger, more vibrant flavor than pre-minced.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry, dark place for several weeks. Avoid refrigeration.
• Enhancement Tip: Roast garlic with butter for a sweeter, milder flavor.

Butter

• Selection: Unsalted butter allows control over seasoning.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated until use.
• Enhancement Tip: Use European-style butter for a richer taste.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts slightly if needed for uniform thickness.
• Basting: Spoon garlic butter over chicken halfway through baking for extra moisture.
• Internal Temperature: Always check chicken reaches 165°F to ensure doneness.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs elevate presentation and add a hint of brightness to the dish.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store baked chicken in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	430 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbs	1 g
Fat	33 g
Fiber	0 g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, nut-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly.

Expanded Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is a classic comfort food that’s simple, flavorful, and versatile. With tender chicken infused with garlic and butter, aromatic herbs, and a golden finish, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or even special occasions, this recipe combines ease and elegance.

Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy a meal that’s full of flavor, without spending hours in the kitchen. This garlic butter chicken will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe, ideal for both busy nights and leisurely dinners.

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