This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is Shockingly Tender
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Made with pantry staples and baked to perfection, it is the ultimate easy dinner recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The rich garlic butter keeps every bite moist and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Place chicken in baking dish and pour garlic butter evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with parsley and an optional squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
- Add grated Parmesan to the garlic butter for a cheesy topping.
- For heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Chicken thighs work just as well and stay juicy.
- A splash of white wine in the dish adds extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently to keep moist.