Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce is a weeknight dinner champion in our household. Honestly, amidst the chaos of school runs, work deadlines, and the general whirlwind of daily life, finding a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare feels like discovering a hidden treasure. This recipe has become just that. From the moment the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter starts to waft from the oven, you know you’re in for a treat. The chicken emerges incredibly juicy and tender, enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s simply irresistible. Even my picky eaters, who often turn their noses up at chicken, devour this dish without a single complaint. It’s become a regular on our dinner table, not just for its ease and deliciousness, but also because it feels like a comforting, home-cooked meal that brings everyone together. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further. This Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce is your answer.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

To create this delectable Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce, you will need a handful of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and ensuring the chicken is both juicy and incredibly tasty. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why it’s essential for this recipe’s success:

• Chicken Breast: The star of the show! For this recipe, you’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Opt for breasts that are roughly the same size and thickness to ensure even cooking. The quality of your chicken will significantly impact the final dish. Look for chicken breasts that are plump, pink, and free from any bruising or discoloration. Fresh chicken breasts are always preferable for optimal flavor and texture. However, if you are using frozen chicken breasts, make sure they are completely thawed before you begin. Patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning is also a key step, as this helps to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear and allows the seasonings to adhere better.
• Butter: Ah, butter, the soul of this sauce! Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the overall saltiness of the dish. Butter provides richness, flavor, and a beautiful velvety texture to the sauce. When melted with garlic and herbs, it creates a luscious base that coats the chicken perfectly. You can experiment with different types of butter for subtle flavor variations. For instance, using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content, can result in an even richer and more decadent sauce. If you are looking for a slightly healthier alternative, you could use a high-quality olive oil for part of the butter, although it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
• Garlic: Garlic is the aromatic backbone of this recipe, infusing the butter sauce with its pungent and savory notes. Fresh garlic is always best for the most intense flavor. You will need several cloves, minced or pressed. The amount of garlic can be adjusted to your personal preference. If you are a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Mincing the garlic finely is important to ensure it cooks evenly and releases its flavor fully into the butter. Avoid using pre-minced garlic in a jar, as it often lacks the fresh, vibrant flavor of freshly minced garlic.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the garlic butter sauce, adding brightness and complexity. Parsley and thyme are classic choices that complement chicken beautifully. Fresh parsley provides a clean, slightly peppery flavor, while fresh thyme offers earthy, slightly lemony notes. You can use either one or a combination of both. Other fresh herbs that would work well include rosemary, oregano, or even chives. Finely chop the herbs before adding them to the sauce to release their aroma and ensure they distribute evenly. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute dried herbs, but remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce and adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Lemon juice also helps to tenderize the chicken slightly and adds a lovely zing to the overall flavor profile. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled lemon juice for its brighter, fresher taste. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for an even more intense citrus flavor.
• Chicken Broth (or White Wine): A splash of chicken broth or dry white wine adds moisture to the sauce and helps to deglaze the pan, lifting up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Chicken broth provides a savory depth, while white wine adds a touch of acidity and complexity. If using white wine, choose a dry variety like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer not to use wine, simply use chicken broth. Vegetable broth can also be used as a substitute for chicken broth.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for its cleaner taste. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferable to pre-ground pepper for its more pungent and aromatic flavor. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking, and also season the garlic butter sauce to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the garlic butter sauce. This adds a subtle kick that complements the richness of the butter and garlic without overpowering the other flavors. If you are sensitive to spice, you can omit the red pepper flakes or use just a very small pinch.

This combination of simple yet high-quality ingredients is what makes this Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce so incredibly flavorful and satisfying. By using fresh ingredients and paying attention to detail, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Perfection

Baking chicken breast in garlic butter sauce is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time. Let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking chicken breast as it cooks the chicken through without drying it out too quickly. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking dish. A 9×13 inch baking dish works well for this recipe, especially if you are cooking multiple chicken breasts. Lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This step ensures easy cleanup later on.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as it removes excess moisture from the surface of the chicken, allowing it to brown beautifully and absorb the seasonings and sauce more effectively. Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Proper seasoning is key to flavorful chicken. You can also add other seasonings at this stage if desired, such as paprika, garlic powder (though there’s plenty of fresh garlic in the sauce), or onion powder.
3. Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can melt the butter on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from splattering. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the melted butter. If using red pepper flakes, add them at this stage as well. Sauté the garlic in the butter over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Sautéing the garlic in butter releases its aromatic oils and infuses the butter with its delicious flavor, creating the foundation of the garlic butter sauce.
4. Add Herbs, Lemon Juice, and Broth/Wine: Remove the saucepan from the heat (or microwave if you melted the butter there). Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and thyme (or your chosen herbs) into the garlic butter mixture. Add the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth (or white wine). Stir everything together to combine all the ingredients and create the garlic butter sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This is your opportunity to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
5. Pour Sauce Over Chicken and Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring that each breast is coated with the sauce. The sauce will help to keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it bakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
6. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken breast. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a chicken breast. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque and no longer pink. Avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can make it dry.
7. Rest Before Serving (Optional but Recommended): Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven. Optional but highly recommended: let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken breast, resulting in even more tender and juicy meat. You can loosely tent the baking dish with foil while the chicken rests to keep it warm.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce immediately while it’s hot and juicy. Spoon the delicious garlic butter sauce from the baking dish over the chicken when serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, for a final touch of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes (see the “How to Serve” section below for ideas).

Following these instructions will lead you to perfectly baked chicken breasts bathed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. The key is to season generously, avoid overcooking, and enjoy the incredible aroma and taste of this simple yet elegant dish.

Nutrition Facts: A Balanced and Delicious Meal

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

Serving Size: 1 Baked Chicken Breast (approximately 4-6 ounces cooked chicken) with sauce

Approximate Nutritional Values Per Serving:

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
  • Note: Calories can vary based on the size of the chicken breast and the amount of butter used. Using leaner chicken breasts and slightly reducing the butter can lower the calorie count.
• Protein: 40-50 grams
  • Note: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Fat: 20-30 grams
  • Note: The fat content primarily comes from the butter. While butter is high in saturated fat, it also contributes to the delicious flavor and texture of the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control sodium intake.
    • Saturated Fat: 12-18 grams (approximate)
    • Unsaturated Fat: Varies
  • Note: While saturated fat intake should be moderate, it’s also important to consider the overall dietary pattern and balance.
• Carbohydrates: 2-4 grams
  • Note: Carbohydrates mainly come from trace amounts in herbs and lemon juice. This dish is very low in carbohydrates.
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram
  • Note: This dish is not a significant source of dietary fiber.
• Sodium: Varies (depending on salt added and broth used)
  • Note: Using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling the amount of added salt can help manage sodium intake.
• Cholesterol: 150-200 mg (approximate)
  • Note: Cholesterol is naturally found in animal products like chicken and butter.

Important Considerations:

• Serving Size: These nutritional values are based on a single serving size, which is approximately one cooked chicken breast (4-6 ounces) with a portion of the sauce. Adjust portion sizes to meet your individual dietary needs and goals.
• Ingredient Variations: Using different types of butter (e.g., salted vs. unsalted, European-style), different amounts of garlic or herbs, or adding other ingredients will affect the nutritional values.
• Cooking Method: Baking is a relatively healthy cooking method as it doesn’t require added oils for cooking the chicken itself.
• Balanced Meal: To create a balanced meal, serve this Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce with a generous portion of vegetables and a healthy carbohydrate source like quinoa, brown rice, or roasted sweet potatoes. This will increase the fiber, vitamins, and minerals in your overall meal.

Disclaimer: These nutritional values are estimates and for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional information, use a nutritional calculator and input the exact quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe. Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

One of the many reasons this Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce is a weeknight favorite is its quick and convenient preparation time. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
  • This includes:
    • Preheating the oven (negligible prep time)
    • Preparing the baking dish (greasing it)
    • Patting dry and seasoning the chicken breasts
    • Mincing the garlic
    • Chopping the fresh herbs
    • Melting the butter and sautéing the garlic
    • Juicing the lemon
    • Measuring out chicken broth/wine
    • Mixing the sauce ingredients
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • This is the time the chicken spends baking in the oven at 400°F (200°C). The exact cook time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes (approximately)

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-mince Garlic: If you want to save a few minutes, you can mince the garlic ahead of time. Store minced garlic in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, for the best flavor, it’s always recommended to mince garlic fresh just before cooking.
• Pre-chop Herbs: Similarly, you can chop the fresh herbs a little bit ahead of time. Keep chopped herbs wrapped in a damp paper towel in a resealable bag in the refrigerator for a few hours.
• Utilize Microwave for Butter: Melting butter in the microwave is faster than melting it on the stovetop. Use short intervals and stir frequently to prevent splattering and overheating.
• Frozen Chicken (Thawed): If using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are completely thawed beforehand. Thawing chicken overnight in the refrigerator is the safest method. You can also use the microwave’s defrost setting, but be sure to cook the chicken immediately after thawing using this method.
• One-Pan Meal: To minimize cleanup, consider adding vegetables directly to the baking dish alongside the chicken during the last 20-25 minutes of baking. Broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or sliced bell peppers would roast beautifully alongside the chicken and soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The short prep time and relatively quick cooking time make it a go-to option for a satisfying family dinner.

How to Serve: Perfect Pairings and Presentation

Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. The rich and flavorful sauce complements both simple and more elaborate accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

Classic and Comforting Sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken and gravy-like sauces. The garlic butter sauce soaks beautifully into the mashed potatoes, creating a truly comforting combination. Consider adding garlic or herbs to your mashed potatoes to complement the chicken.
• Rice (White or Brown): Fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice are excellent choices for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Basmati or jasmine rice are particularly fragrant and pair well with the flavors of the dish.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Toss the cooked pasta with the remaining garlic butter sauce from the baking dish for a simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables add color, nutrients, and texture to the meal. Consider roasting:
  • Broccoli: Broccoli florets roast beautifully and become slightly crispy and caramelized.
  • Asparagus: Asparagus spears are quick to roast and provide a delicate flavor.
  • Bell Peppers: Roasted bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Carrots: Roasted carrots become tender and sweet.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a slightly nutty and savory flavor.
  • Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes provide a touch of sweetness and are packed with nutrients.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: For soaking up every last drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce, serve with warm garlic bread or crusty bread.

Lighter and Healthier Options:

• Quinoa: Quinoa is a protein-rich and gluten-free grain that makes a healthy and satisfying side dish.
• Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous is another great grain option that pairs well with the chicken and sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans are a healthy and low-calorie side dish that complements the chicken.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over zucchini noodles (zoodles).

Presentation Tips:

• Garnish: Garnish the plated chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a few red pepper flakes for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Sauce Drizzle: Spoon a generous amount of the garlic butter sauce over the chicken when serving. You can also drizzle a little extra sauce over the side dishes if desired.
• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice if they wish.
• Family Style or Individual Plates: You can serve this dish family-style, placing the baked chicken breasts and side dishes in serving bowls on the table, or plate individual servings for a more formal presentation.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce is sure to be a hit. The flavorful chicken and versatile sauce make it a crowd-pleasing dish that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Additional Tips: Elevating Your Baked Chicken

While this recipe is already quite simple and delicious, here are five additional tips to help you elevate your Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce to the next level and ensure perfect results every time:

1. Pound Chicken Breasts for Even Cooking: Chicken breasts often vary in thickness, which can lead to uneven cooking. The thinner parts can dry out before the thicker parts are cooked through. To ensure even cooking, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step helps the chicken cook more quickly and evenly, resulting in juicier and more tender chicken.
2. Marinate for Extra Flavor (Optional): While not strictly necessary, marinating the chicken breasts can infuse them with even more flavor and tenderness. Before baking, you can marinate the chicken in a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite herbs for 30 minutes to an hour (or even overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor). Discard the marinade before baking and proceed with the recipe as directed. The marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and adds another layer of flavor complexity.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken breast, avoiding the bone if there is one (although this recipe uses boneless breasts). Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking chicken is the most common mistake that leads to dry and tough meat. A meat thermometer eliminates guesswork and guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
4. Baste During Baking for Extra Moisture: To keep the chicken extra moist and flavorful during baking, baste it with the garlic butter sauce halfway through the cooking time. Simply spoon some of the sauce from the bottom of the baking dish over the chicken breasts. Basting helps to keep the chicken moist and adds an extra layer of flavor from the sauce. You can baste again towards the end of the cooking time if desired.
5. Broil for a Golden-Brown Finish (Optional): If you want to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust on top of your chicken, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Once the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F (74°C), turn the oven to broil (high heat) and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Broiling adds a touch of caramelization and visual appeal to the dish. Be sure to keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling as it can brown very quickly.

By incorporating these additional tips, you can further enhance the flavor, texture, and overall deliciousness of your Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce. Experiment with these techniques to find what works best for you and consistently create restaurant-quality chicken at home.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce to help you troubleshoot and make the most of this recipe:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw chicken breasts overnight in the refrigerator for the safest and best results. You can also thaw them using the microwave’s defrost setting, but be sure to cook the chicken immediately after thawing using this method. Do not bake frozen chicken breasts directly, as they will cook unevenly and may not reach a safe internal temperature before drying out.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While freshly baked chicken is always best, you can prepare components of this recipe in advance to save time. You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also season the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the chicken and bake as directed. Cooked chicken breast is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q3: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs if needed. However, fresh herbs provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated in flavor, so use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. Add dried herbs to the garlic butter sauce while sautéing the garlic to allow them to bloom and release their flavor fully.

Q4: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while baking?

A: Several factors contribute to keeping chicken breasts moist while baking:
* Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and no higher. Overcooking is the primary cause of dry chicken.
* Pound chicken breasts: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly, preventing thinner parts from drying out.
* Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce helps to keep the chicken moist during baking. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
* Basting (optional): Basting the chicken with the sauce during baking adds extra moisture.
* Resting: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and moist chicken.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to bake with the chicken?

A: Yes, you can easily turn this into a one-pan meal by adding vegetables to bake alongside the chicken. Good vegetable options include broccoli florets, asparagus spears, sliced bell peppers, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Add the vegetables to the baking dish around the chicken during the last 20-25 minutes of baking time, depending on the type and size of vegetables. Toss the vegetables lightly with some of the garlic butter sauce to coat them before baking. This is a convenient way to create a complete and balanced meal with minimal cleanup.

These FAQs should address common questions and concerns about making Baked Chicken Breast in Garlic Butter Sauce. With these tips and answers, you’ll be well-equipped to make this delicious and easy recipe a success every time!

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