Description
A simple, budget-friendly recipe for juicy and tender oven-baked chicken breasts using a secret herb butter topping. This method ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- In a small bowl, mash together softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until a uniform paste forms.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spread a generous tablespoon of the herb butter mixture directly on top of each chicken breast.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid opening the oven door frequently during the first 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to uniform thickness if they vary in size. Ensure butter is softened for easy spreading. Resting the chicken is crucial for juiciness. This recipe is naturally gluten-free if using certified GF spices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast per
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken breast, oven baked chicken, herb butter, easy dinner, meal prep, juicy chicken, weeknight dinner, gluten-free