How to Make Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in 30 Minutes

Looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Today, I’m sharing my secret to making the most tender, juicy, and delicious Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in just 30 minutes! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves **easy pasta recipes** and **quick family dinners**. It’s so simple, yet packed with flavor, making it a staple for any **weeknight dinner ideas** collection. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a side of **creamy garlic pasta** for a well-rounded meal that’s ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for **30-minute meals**!
• Tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken breast that’s anything but dry.
• A simple ingredient list that’s easy to customize.
• Minimal prep work, making it a great option for busy evenings.
• Pairs well with a variety of sides, from pasta to roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, you can prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray. This ensures the chicken breasts won’t stick to the dish while baking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped parsley. Stir until well combined. This garlic butter mixture is what gives the chicken its rich, savory flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t steam instead of bake.

Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish

Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each breast to allow for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken for a touch of brightness and to enhance the flavors. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcrowding the dish, as this can affect the cooking time and result in less tender chicken.

Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)

If you prefer a crispy exterior on your chicken, broil the breasts for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the remaining parsley over the top. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and tender.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast turns out perfectly every time:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh garlic and real butter make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the dish: If you’re cooking for a larger family, consider using multiple baking dishes to ensure each chicken breast has enough space.
• Let it rest: Resist the temptation to slice the chicken immediately after baking. Letting it rest ensures the juices stay inside the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

How to Serve

This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to suit your taste. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Pasta: Toss the chicken with **easy pasta recipes** like **creamy garlic pasta** or a simple green salad for a light and satisfying meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy and well-rounded dinner.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes, letting the garlic butter sauce drizzle over the top for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time and stored for later use. Here’s how:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the garlic butter mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time during busy weeknights.
• Refrigerate: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze: If you want to freeze the chicken, it’s best to do so before baking. Place the prepared chicken breasts (without the garlic butter mixture) in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready.

And there you have it—my secret to making the perfect Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast in just 30 minutes! This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for **quick family dinners** that are both delicious and easy to prepare. If you’re a fan of chicken breast recipes, be sure to check out my other favorites like How to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast (Best Recipe) and How to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast (Easy Recipe). Don’t forget to explore more **amazing chicken breast recipes** like How to Make Perfectly Crispy Baked Ranch Chicken for even more inspiration. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does!