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The Ultimate Garlic Butter Baked Chicken

Discover how to make the juiciest, most flavorful Garlic Butter Baked Chicken with this easy, weeknight-friendly recipe. Perfect for a quick family dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner Recipes
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of olive oil.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures the butter sauce clings properly to the meat and helps achieve a beautiful roasted texture. Place the dried chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until the spices are well distributed throughout the liquid.
  4. Pour the rich garlic butter mixture generously over the chicken breasts. Use a pastry brush or spoon to make sure every single piece is thoroughly and evenly coated with the seasoned butter.
  5. Bake uncovered on the middle rack for 22 to 25 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches exactly 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part.
  6. Remove the baking dish from the oven and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly tender. Spoon the savory pan juices over the top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.