Are you in the mood for something delicious, easy to prepare, and sure to impress at the dinner table? Look no further than this Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe. With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a total cooking time of 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe that serves 6 and delivers a flavorful punch with only 236 kcal per serving.
Ingredients
- 3 large chicken breasts: Cut these horizontally and pound them to an even thickness if necessary, ensuring that each piece cooks evenly.
- Seasonings: You’ll need 3/4 teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, and thyme for that herby flavor, enhanced by 1 and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Salt and pepper are also crucial, with 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper to taste.
- For the garlic butter sauce: Combine 3 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, a dash of honey (1 tablespoon), and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a hint of sweetness and spice.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil for searing the chicken, ensuring a golden and crispy exterior.
Directions
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting a beautifully browned and crispy exterior on the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: After preparing your chicken breasts by slicing and pounding them to an even thickness, season them generously with basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This herb and spice blend will infuse the chicken with flavors that are aromatic and bold.
- Make the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will add a rich, savory, and slightly spicy glaze to the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 1 minute on each side until it’s golden brown. This step is crucial for locking in those juices and ensuring a flavorful crust.
- Bake: After searing, return all the chicken to the skillet and drizzle it with the prepared garlic butter mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s utterly delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your weekday meal routine or impress guests at your next dinner party, this recipe is a foolproof choice that promises to delight. With a prep time that’s a breeze and a flavor profile that’s robust, it’s a culinary win-win. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and prepare to bask in the compliments that are sure to come your way!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
3 large chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally and pounded to even thickness (if necessary)
3/4 teaspoon dried basil
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare chicken breasts by slicing thinly. For uneven pieces, cover with plastic wrap and pound to even thickness. Season with basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes.
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 1 minute on each side until golden. Remove and repeat with remaining chicken.
Return all chicken to the skillet and drizzle with the butter mixture.
Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 236 kcal | Servings: 6