Description

A simple, comforting recipe for juicy oven-baked chicken breasts coated in a savory garlic herb butter rub. This method ensures tender, flavorful meat without the dryness, using minimal ingredients and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup (113g) high-quality unsalted butter, softened
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove chicken breasts from the fridge and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to come to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels and place in a single layer on a sheet pan.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until a uniform paste forms. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Spread the garlic herb butter mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast, pressing it in to ensure it adheres.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting. Pour any remaining butter from the pan over the chicken during resting.
Serve immediately with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened, not melted, to create a barrier that keeps moisture in. Do not skip the resting step, as it allows juices to redistribute. If chicken breasts vary in size, trim the thick ends of larger pieces to ensure even cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking; pull chicken at 160°F as residual heat will bring it to 165°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 380
Sodium: 320
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 11
Carbohydrates: 1
Protein: 35

Keywords: chicken breast, oven baked chicken, garlic herb butter, juicy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free, family friendly