Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter

Name: Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously moist and flavorful, this baked chicken breast with garlic butter is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:24:38.769Z

This baked chicken breast with garlic butter is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The garlic butter keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken breast infused with garlic butter flavor
Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home
Quick prep and cooking time for a hassle-free meal
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter is the ideal solution for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty and delicious meal ready in no time. The combination of juicy chicken and rich garlic butter creates a comforting dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your schedule. This recipe ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after a long day at work or planning a family gathering, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion. The straightforward preparation allows even novice cooks to shine, making it a great choice for those looking to build their confidence in the kitchen.

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you’re committed to a meal prep routine, this baked chicken breast recipe should be at the top of your list. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for the week ahead, allowing you to enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals without the stress of daily cooking.

Simply bake a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have flavorful chicken ready to pair with salads, grains, or roasted vegetables throughout the week. This versatility means you can enjoy different meals without feeling like you’re eating the same thing over and over.

Customizing Your Chicken

One of the best aspects of this baked chicken breast recipe is its adaptability. While the garlic butter flavor is a winner on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or incorporating different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist.

If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture. Experiment with various spices and flavors to create your perfect version of this dish, ensuring that it never feels repetitive, no matter how often you make it.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.

Prepare Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful baked chicken!

Storage Tips

To keep your baked chicken breast fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to four days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

If you want to extend the shelf life further, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

This baked chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. The garlic butter sauce can also be drizzled over your sides for added flavor, tying the meal together beautifully.

For a lighter option, consider serving the chicken on a bed of quinoa or brown rice, topped with steamed greens. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture to your meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a staple in many healthy diets. It’s low in fat while providing essential nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals like phosphorus and selenium. Pairing it with garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds health benefits, as garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.

This dish is not only delicious but also supports a balanced diet. By incorporating vegetables and whole grains as sides, you can create a well-rounded meal that nourishes the body while satisfying the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?

Yes, skin-on chicken breasts can be used for added flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ What should I serve with baked chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I freeze leftover chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover cooked chicken. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).