Description

A comforting, easy-to-make oven-baked chicken breast recipe featuring a protective layer of garlic herb butter that ensures juicy, tender meat with minimal active effort.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large or 3 medium chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Let chicken breasts sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil and rub gently over both sides. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, rubbing seasoning into the meat.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme leaves, and lemon zest. Mix until a fragrant paste forms.
Spoon the garlic herb butter mixture generously over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve with pan juices spooned over the top.

Notes

For even cooking, pound thicker ends of chicken breasts lightly with a rolling pin. If butter is too cold to mix, microwave for 5 seconds. Do not skip the resting period as it is crucial for juiciness. To prevent garlic from burning, ensure it is finely minced and distributed evenly; avoid broiling at the end.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast per
Calories: 320
Sodium: 450
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 2
Protein: 35

Keywords: chicken breast, oven-baked chicken, garlic herb butter, easy dinner, self-care meal, juicy chicken, healthy dinner, gluten-free