Easy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet mouthwatering dish that will impress your family or guests, look no further than Garlic Butter Baked Chicken. This succulent chicken recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender chicken breasts, making it irresistible. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. In this article, I’ll guide you through the benefits of this dish, the ingredients you’ll need, and the step-by-step instructions to create this delightful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic works wonders in this recipe
• Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish; melted butter adds richness
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are excellent choices; they complement the garlic perfectly
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic. Stir well until fully mixed.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

Chop fresh rosemary and thyme finely. Mix them into the garlic butter mixture for that aromatic touch.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over them evenly to ensure great flavor throughout.

Step 5: Bake Until Done

Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the baking dish for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

✨ Create your favorite meals and snacks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is an incredible way to enjoy flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen!

Add these to your recipe collection

Quick and Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken Recipe

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Want more flavor-packed ideas?

Easy Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Make Ahead and Storage

✨ Multifunction kitchen grinder

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance. Mix it up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least one hour, or overnight for best results.
• Storing: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within three to four days for optimal flavor and safety. If you want to freeze, use freezer-safe bags or containers, and try to eat within three months for best quality.
• Reheating: For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring even heating.

Satisfy your cravings with these recipes

Baked Caesar Chicken

Suggestions for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making garlic butter baked chicken that bursts with flavor. When possible, opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced options, as it has a stronger aroma and taste. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can elevate the dish even further. Avoid using expired spices or old butter, as these can diminish the overall quality of your meal. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also improve the nutritional value of your dish. Always check your pantry and fridge before starting to ensure you have the best components for your recipe.

Maintain Proper Cooking Temperature

Cooking chicken at the right temperature is essential for both flavor and safety. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the chicken inside. If you cook it at too low a temperature, the chicken may dry out and become tough. Conversely, cooking at too high a temperature can cause the outside to burn while leaving the inside undercooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your garlic butter baked chicken is juicy and safe to eat.

Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Tray

When preparing garlic butter baked chicken, avoid overcrowding the baking tray. Placing too many pieces of chicken close together can trap steam, preventing them from browning properly. This often leads to soggy skin instead of that delicious crispiness you desire. Give each piece enough space to allow hot air to circulate around them during baking. If necessary, use two trays or bake in batches to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish on each piece of chicken.

Let it Rest Before Serving

After baking your garlic butter chicken, allow it to rest before serving. Resting helps redistribute juices throughout the meat, making every bite tender and flavorful. Cutting into it immediately will let those precious juices escape, resulting in dry chicken. A resting period of about 5-10 minutes is ideal; this not only improves texture but also enhances overall taste. Cover it loosely with foil during this time to keep it warm while you prepare any sides or sauces.

For more mouth-watering creations

Herb Roasted Chicken in Creamy White Sauce

FAQs

What is Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?

Garlic butter baked chicken is a delicious dish featuring chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic butter sauce before being baked in the oven. The combination of melted butter and minced garlic creates a flavorful glaze that seeps into the meat as it cooks, resulting in juicy and aromatic chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes and is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

How do I store leftovers from Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?

To store leftovers from garlic butter baked chicken, first allow them to cool down to room temperature. Then transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored in the fridge, leftovers will last up to three days. You can also freeze leftover chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just ensure they are consumed within three months for optimal flavor and texture upon reheating.

Can I make Garlic Butter Baked Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare garlic butter baked chicken ahead of time! To do this, marinate the chicken with garlic butter sauce several hours or even overnight in advance for deeper flavor penetration. After marinating, simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. When it’s time to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven; this helps ensure even cooking.

What sides go well with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken?

Garlic butter baked chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and color on your plate. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf also make excellent choices that soak up any remaining sauce nicely. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish beautifully.

Expand your menu with these recipes

Delicious Italian Chicken Soup Recipe

Conclusion

In summary, crafting perfect garlic butter baked chicken involves using fresh ingredients, maintaining proper cooking temperatures, avoiding overcrowding on baking trays, and allowing resting time after cooking. By following these tips meticulously, you’ll create a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving this dish for everyday meals or special occasions, mastering these key points will elevate your culinary skills significantly while ensuring that your garlic butter baked chicken remains juicy and delicious every time you make it!