Classic Butter Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Ingredients

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather the ingredients that make this recipe a true winner. You don’t need anything fancy – just some basic pantry staples, and you’re good to go.

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Butter: 1/2 cup (unsalted, for better control of flavor)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for a touch of extra richness
• Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced for that savory aroma
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon to add a hint of acidity
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary, about 1 teaspoon of each
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped for a fresh, green pop of color
• Lemon Slices: For an extra citrusy kick
• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle for added depth and flavor

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s take a look at how we can transform these into a buttery, juicy chicken masterpiece.

How to Prepare Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Preparation is key to a successful chicken dish, but don’t worry – this one’s as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take your chicken breasts and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures your chicken will get that nice crispy edge.

Now, if you want to take it a step further, you can lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. It’s important to season early so the flavors start to develop. You can also give your chicken a light dusting of garlic powder if you’re craving an extra kick of flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, stir in the lemon juice, fresh thyme, and rosemary. Let this mixture simmer for another minute to allow the herbs to release their aromatic oils.

This step is where the magic happens. The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs gives the chicken a wonderful base of flavor that will infuse every bite.

Step 3: Searing the Chicken

Although this is a baked chicken recipe, searing the chicken breasts in a hot pan for just a few minutes before popping them in the oven helps to lock in all the juices. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. When the pan is hot, place the chicken breasts in and let them sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You don’t need to cook them through; just get a golden brown crust.

This quick searing step ensures a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and moist. It also enhances the flavor by giving the chicken a deep, rich brown color that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Now that the chicken is seared, it’s time to bake. Pour your prepared butter mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. This is where the butter will do its magic, keeping the chicken juicy and rich. Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

As the chicken bakes, the butter will melt into the meat, infusing it with all those wonderful flavors. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges, with a perfectly tender inside.