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Foolproof Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast: The Juiciest 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner

Close-up of a juicy baked chicken breast slice showing moist white meat and a golden, herbed topping.
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This recipe delivers tender, moist baked chicken breast every time using a simple garlic butter coating. It is fast enough for a weeknight meal and perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients

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  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the thicker end of the chicken breasts until they are an even thickness (about 3/4 inch). This step helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
  3. Make the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Coat the chicken: Rub the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
  5. Bake the chicken: Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 to 22 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your chicken.
  6. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part. The chicken is done when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
  7. Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for retaining moisture.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For extra juiciness, you can lightly brine the chicken in salt water for 30 minutes before seasoning.
  • If your chicken breasts are very thick (over 1 inch), consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for faster, more even cooking.
  • This chicken is excellent for meal prep; store cooled, sliced chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheffinity.com/juicy-baked-chicken-breast-recipe-easy/