Description
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a golden garlic-herb finish. A quick butter baste and high-heat roast keep boneless, skinless breasts moist and flavorful—perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lb), patted dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
GARLIC BUTTER
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (fresh)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for color)
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment or lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Pat chicken dry. Rub with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika (if using).
4. Arrange chicken on the pan. Brush generously with half of the garlic butter.
5. Bake 18–22 minutes (depending on thickness) until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste with remaining garlic butter halfway through baking.
7. Rest 5 minutes before slicing. Finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Success tips:
- Even thickness = even cooking. Lightly pound thicker ends to ~3/4 inch.
- Garlic can scorch: if sensitive to sharp flavor, simmer garlic in the butter 30 seconds first.
- Dairy-free: swap butter for olive oil or ghee.
- Add crunch: sprinkle grated Parmesan in the last 5 minutes for a light crust.
Make-ahead & storage:
- Season breasts up to 24 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate.
- Store cooked chicken 3–4 days in an airtight container; freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or in a covered skillet over medium-low.
Serving ideas:
- Toss sliced chicken with pasta or salads, layer into wraps, or serve with roasted veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Chicken
- Method: Oven-Baked, One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg