Description
A foolproof, juicy oven-baked chicken breast recipe coated in a savory herb butter. This low-stress, weeknight-friendly meal stays moist and flavorful with minimal active prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried herbs (thyme, oregano, parsley, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If breasts are thick, pound them to an even ¾ inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, mash together softened butter, minced garlic, dried herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika until a paste forms.
- Lightly oil a baking sheet or line with foil. Place chicken on the sheet and sprinkle lightly with extra salt and pepper.
- Spread a generous dollop of herb butter (about 1 tablespoon per breast) evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Rub any remaining butter into the sides.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes. Do not open the oven for the first 15 minutes. Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Ideally, pull at 160°F to allow for carryover cooking.
- Remove from oven and let rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting or serving to retain juices.
Notes
Do not overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F but consider pulling it at 160°F for residual heat. Ensure butter is softened for even spreading. Pound chicken to uniform thickness for even cooking. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to redistribute juices.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken breast, oven baked chicken, herb butter chicken, weeknight dinner, juicy chicken, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free dinner, keto chicken