Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast for Busy Weeknights

Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast is your weeknight dinner MVP—easy, juicy, and packed with buttery, garlicky goodness. If your schedule’s looking more chaotic than calm, this recipe comes through like a cozy blanket on a cold Monday. It takes just 15 minutes to prep, and once it hits the oven, your kitchen smells like something out of a dreamy Italian bistro (minus the airfare).

And let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a go-to chicken recipe that tastes like you worked magic but really took less effort than wrangling kids into the car for soccer practice? Whether you’re trying to impress picky eaters, meal prep for the week, or just need something you won’t mess up, this garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast has your back—flavor, simplicity, and all.

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What is Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast?

At its core, garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast is a super-simple, oven-friendly dish that transforms everyday boneless, skinless chicken breasts into tender bites of flavor heaven. By basting the chicken in a buttery garlic mixture, you lock in moisture while building rich, savory depth in every bite. No bland chicken here, promise.

The oven does most of the work, slowly baking the chicken until it’s golden and juicy. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special without needing a single fancy ingredient. No brining, no breading, no frying—just wholesome, straightforward deliciousness you can pull off in one baking dish.

Reasons to Try Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Busy week? Hungry crew? This garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast is a total win. First off, it’s fast. You’re looking at 45 minutes start to finish, and most of that is just the oven doing its thing. Secondly, it’s adaptable—pair it with pasta, rice, or even toss leftovers on a salad (if there are any). The buttery garlic flavor is kid-approved but also dinner-party worthy if you want to fancy it up with some lemon zest or herbs.

Plus, it uses kitchen staples—chicken, butter, garlic, olive oil—no wild goose chases through the grocery aisles. It’s also a smart way to keep dinner light but still hearty, and it reheats like a charm. Honestly, once you make it, it’s probably going on repeat.

Ingredients Needed to Make Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

You’ll also need a baking dish, a small saucepan, and a meat thermometer. If you’ve got those, you’re golden.

Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Making the perfect Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you follow this easy step-by-step guide. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or just looking for a no-fuss dinner win, this process walks you through each stage clearly. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking chicken breasts so they come out juicy and fully cooked without drying out.
While the oven heats, grab your favorite baking dish. Lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to help the chicken brown nicely. If you’re not sure which baking dish to use, check out this guide on choosing the right bakeware for different types of meals.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter. Once the butter is fully melted, stir in your minced garlic (about 4 cloves).
Sauté the garlic for 1–2 minutes until it’s fragrant and golden—but not browned. Burnt garlic can overpower the dish with bitterness, so keep a close eye on it.
Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This pause allows the flavors to blend and prevents the garlic from cooking further once poured over the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken Breasts

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is easy to overlook, but essential—drying the chicken helps the seasoning and butter cling better, resulting in more flavorful bites.
Now, sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of each breast. If you’re feeding kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors, you can adjust the seasoning here. For more seasoning options, explore our guide on chicken seasoning variations, which includes ideas like smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or lemon pepper.

Step 4: Apply the Garlic Butter—Step by Step

Using a brush or spoon, apply half of your garlic butter mixture over the seasoned chicken. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot of butter—that’s what makes it juicy and flavorful!
Lay the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Crowding the pan? Not a good idea. Give each piece a little breathing room so it bakes evenly.
Next, pour the remaining garlic butter over the chicken. Be generous and make sure the garlic bits get evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake to Juicy Perfection

Place the baking dish in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The actual time can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
To avoid dry, overcooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Your target? An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
No thermometer? No problem—learn how to check chicken for doneness without a thermometer (but we still recommend getting one).

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

After baking, resist the urge to slice right in. Let the chicken rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute so every bite stays moist.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. It’s a simple garnish that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast hot with your favorite sides—like buttery mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a cozy pasta dish.
Looking for more chicken dinner ideas? Try our Hot Honey Chicken Cutlets or comforting Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini for variations that follow a similar step-by-step method.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

This dish is super flexible when it comes to sides. If you’re going for comfort food vibes, buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice will soak up every drop of garlic butter. Want something lighter? Toss together a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roast up some broccoli or asparagus. Need a quick starch? Try it with garlic bread or even quinoa if you’re feeling a little extra. Leftovers also make a killer sandwich or wrap the next day—yes, it’s that kind of dish.

Key Tips for Making Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Tip #1: Let your chicken rest after baking—it helps keep it juicy. Tip #2: Use a thermometer. Eyeballing is risky, especially with thicker breasts. Tip #3: Don’t skip the garlic butter resting phase before you pour it over the chicken—if it’s too hot, it can overcook the garlic or separate. Bonus tip: Feel free to customize! Add lemon zest, fresh thyme, or a sprinkle of parmesan on top if you want to take it up a notch. And if your chicken breasts are wildly uneven in size, gently pound them to a uniform thickness so they cook evenly.

Storage and Reheating Tips Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Got leftovers? You’re winning. Store your garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap each piece in foil or parchment paper and freeze in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, avoid the microwave if you can—it zaps the moisture right out. Instead, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F with a splash of chicken broth or extra butter. If you must microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to help keep it juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust your cook time, since thighs might need a few more minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yep—prep it earlier in the day, store it in the fridge, then bake when ready.

Is it spicy?
Not at all. It’s garlicky and buttery. If you want heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I add cheese?
You bet! A sprinkle of mozzarella or parmesan before baking is chef’s kiss.

What’s the best way to avoid dry chicken?
Use a thermometer, don’t overbake, and let it rest before cutting. Works every time.

Final Thoughts

When dinner needs to be easy, foolproof, and honestly a little bit luxurious, garlic butter oven-baked chicken breast answers the call. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without needing a dozen spices, and flexible enough to work with whatever sides you’ve got on hand. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, it’s the kind of meal that just works. Want more chicken recipes like this one? You’ll love our Hot Honey Chicken Cutlets or Easy Homemade Butter Chicken. They’re just as quick, cozy, and delicious.

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