Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts

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These Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts are rich, juicy, and infused with irresistible garlicky flavor. Each bite is tender, buttery, and perfectly seasoned the kind of simple yet satisfying dinner that feels gourmet without any fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights, comforting meals, or when you want something delicious with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary to bloom the herbs in the butter.
  6. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and sear 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  7. Spoon the garlic butter over each chicken breast.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
  9. Let rest a few minutes, then garnish with parsley and drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce.

Variation

  1. Swap the dried thyme and rosemary for Italian seasoning to give the chicken a more herb-forward, cozy flavor.
  2. Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a bright, fresh twist.
  3. Mix in a pinch of paprika or chili flakes if you enjoy a little warmth with your buttery garlic sauce.

Cooking Notes

  1. Make sure the garlic cooks gently high heat can burn it quickly and turn it bitter.
  2. If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness so they sear and bake evenly.
  3. Use an oven-safe skillet so you can move from stovetop to oven without needing to transfer the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
  2. Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced plate.
  3. Place the chicken slices on top of pasta for a quick, indulgent garlic butter chicken pasta dish.

Tips

  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing this keeps it juicy and tender.
  • Don’t skimp on seasoning; salt and pepper help bring out the full flavor of the garlic butter.
  • Use fresh herbs instead of dried if you have them they’ll make the dish even more aromatic.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Sodium: ~420 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    Yes! Boneless thighs work great and stay extra juicy just adjust the baking time as they may cook a bit faster.

  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    You can fully cook the chicken and reheat gently, but it’s best fresh so the garlic butter stays silky and flavorful.

  3. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
    Absolutely. Add asparagus, green beans, or zucchini during the last 10 minutes of baking for an easy one-pan meal.

  4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
    Use a meat thermometer the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken is simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying the kind of dish that turns basic ingredients into something special. With juicy chicken breasts, golden garlic, and rich melted butter, it’s a dinner that never disappoints. Perfect for busy nights, family meals, or anytime you’re craving pure comfort. Enjoy every buttery bite!

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