Introduction to Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
What is Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast?
If you’re in search of a simple yet delicious way to elevate your chicken dinner, look no further than Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast. This dish is all about blending the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter with tender, juicy chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that's both comforting and satisfying.
Imagine succulent chicken breasts, perfectly seasoned, seared to golden perfection, and then baked with a decadent garlic butter sauce that seeps into every bite. This recipe is not just quick to prepare but also offers incredible versatility. You can serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp veggies, or on its own for a low-carb option.
Why not impress your friends or family with your culinary skills? According to a survey by the Institute of Culinary Education, home-cooked meals can positively impact your mood and foster a sense of connection around the dinner table. So, pull out your apron, grab those fresh garlic cloves, and let’s create a dish that not only tastes great but also brings people together. You’re just a few ingredients away from making a memorable meal! For more cooking tips, visit Bon Appétit.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
When it comes to making a delicious garlic butter baked chicken breast, having the right ingredients is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this succulent dish:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of our recipe, chicken breasts offer a lean protein base that soaks up all the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that will elevate the taste of your chicken.
- ½ + ¼ teaspoon paprika: This spice adds not only flavor but also a warm color to your dish. You can find it here.
- 4 tablespoon butter (melted): The magic ingredient that creates the rich garlic butter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that gives an aromatic touch—grab some here.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and enhance presentation.
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced): It wouldn’t be garlic butter baked chicken breast without this robust ingredient!
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: This adds healthy fats and helps sear the chicken beautifully—get some here.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to making a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma!
Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to impress with a delicious meal. But don't worry! Preparing garlic butter baked chicken breast is straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through the process. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a dinner that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Preheat and season the chicken
To kick things off, preheat your oven to 400°F. This temperature is perfect for ensuring your chicken cooks evenly while keeping that juicy texture we all love. While the oven heats, take your three boneless skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. This simple seasoning will add depth to the chicken’s flavor. Let the seasoned chicken sit while we prepare the garlic butter mixture.
Create the garlic butter mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ teaspoon of paprika, 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. As you mix, don't you just love that fragrant aroma wafting up? This garlic butter blend will not only coat the chicken beautifully but also infuse it with a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. Set this aside as we move on to searing the chicken.
Sear the chicken in a skillet
Grab a cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet you have) and heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, gently add the chicken breasts, searing them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden brown crust. This step helps lock in moisture, enhancing the garlic butter baked chicken breast experience. Golden skin equals maximum flavor!
Bake to perfection
Now for the best part! Carefully pour your prepared garlic butter mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet. Then, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-30 minutes or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F. During this time, the butter will work its magic, melding with the chicken and creating a delightful sauce that's pure comfort food.
Serve with a drizzle of sauce
Once you've pulled your chicken out of the oven, take a moment to marvel at the deliciousness! Use a spoon to drizzle some of the buttery garlic sauce left in the skillet over the chicken before plating. You can enhance the presentation by topping it with a bit of extra fresh parsley if desired. This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh pop of flavor!
There you have it—a scrumptious garlic butter baked chicken breast ready to enjoy. Serve with your favorite sides, and revel in the delightful flavors. Bon appétit!
Variations on Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Transform your garlic butter baked chicken breast with these exciting variations!
Lemon Garlic Version
For a refreshing twist, add the juice of one lemon and a teaspoon of lemon zest to your garlic butter mixture. This brightens up the flavor profile while maintaining that rich, buttery base. Serve it garnished with lemon slices or a sprinkle of fresh parsley to enhance the visual appeal.
Herb-Infused Alternative
Take your baked chicken to the next level by incorporating different herbs. Swap out the Italian seasoning with a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage for an earthy aroma. These herbs not only elevate the flavor but also pair beautifully with the garlic, creating a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Experiment with these variations to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this classic recipe! Want to explore more savory options? Check out Love & Lemons for wholesome ideas.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
When preparing your garlic butter baked chicken breast, a few tips can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!
- Perfectly Seasoned: Always season your chicken generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Don’t shy away from adding extra garlic if you love a robust taste!
- Sear for Flavor: Searing the chicken breast for that golden crust not only adds visual appeal but also locks in juices, ensuring a moist bite at every forkful.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For safety and quality, check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s the best way to avoid dry chicken!
- Herb Variations: Feel free to adjust the herbs based on what you have on hand—thyme or rosemary can be wonderful substitutes for Italian seasoning.
For more insights on flavor pairing, check out this herbs guide. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Looking for the perfect way to elevate your garlic butter baked chicken breast? Here are some tasty serving suggestions!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Pair this succulent chicken with velvety mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. A comfort food classic!
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Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken perfectly. Try arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a burst of flavor.
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Steamed Vegetables: Brighten up your plate with vibrant steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness will make the meal feel complete.
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Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or nutritious quinoa. These grain bases are excellent at capturing all the flavorful juices.
Feel free to experiment with these suggestions, and savor the delightful experience of your homemade dish! For more meal ideas, check out this guide to perfect side dishes.
Time details for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Preparation time
Getting started on your garlic butter baked chicken breast takes just about 10 minutes. It’s a quick process that allows you to season the chicken and prepare the flavorful garlic butter mix. This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped, let the oven do its magic! The chicken needs approximately 20 to 30 minutes to bake. You’ll want to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for the safest and tastiest results.
Total time
In total, you’ll be enjoying your homemade garlic butter baked chicken breast in about 30 to 40 minutes. Whether you pair it with steamed veggies, a side salad, or a fluffy grain, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
For a deep dive into the flavors, check out more cooking tips or explore how to make the most of your kitchen time on Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal without compromising your health, this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast scores high. Here’s a quick glance at its nutritional profile:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet nutritious choice for dinner.
Protein
Packed with protein, this dish offers around 36 grams per serving. Perfect for those looking to increase their protein intake while maintaining a balanced diet.
Sodium
With just about 500 milligrams of sodium, it's a flavorful option that won’t break your low-sodium goals. Just be mindful of seasoning, especially if you're watching your intake!
For more tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle while enjoying your favorite meals, check out this article on Healthy Eating Habits. This way, you can savor every bite of your garlic butter baked chicken breast without any guilt!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
How can I ensure the chicken is juicy?
To achieve a juicy garlic butter baked chicken breast, it’s essential to avoid overcooking. Using a meat thermometer will help; ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Searing the chicken first also locks in moisture. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender bite.
What sides pair well with garlic butter chicken?
This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a touch of elegance, try pairing it with wild rice or quinoa. These sides complement the buttery flavors beautifully and create a well-rounded meal.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first. If you’re in a pinch, you can bake from frozen, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Just ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safety. For more tips on cooking from frozen, check out this USDA guide.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
In conclusion, our Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a true game changer! It's not only straightforward to prepare but also packed with flavor. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress. Turn dinner into a delightful experience with this savory recipe!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Food & Wine for inspiration and cooking tips!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon paprika additional
- 4 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, ½ teaspoon of paprika and set aside.
- In a small bowl mix ¼ teaspoon of paprika, butter, Italian seasoning, parsley, and garlic. Set aside.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. When the skillet is hot add chicken breast. Sear until golden. It’s about 1-2 minutes each side.
- Pour garlic butter mixture over the chicken breast. Place skillet in the oven and cook until cooked through. It’s about 20-30 minutes or until chicken breasts gets to an internal temperature of 165F.
- Remove from the oven. Using a spoon, pour some of the butter sauce left in the skillet onto the chicken breast. Also, if you prefer, top with fresh herbs before serving.
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