Description
A simple and flavorful Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts seared in a cast iron skillet and then baked in a garlic-infused butter sauce for a golden, tender finish. This easy, 25-minute meal is perfect for a quick dinner and serves three.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
For Searing
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Set them aside to prepare the sauce.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with 1/4 teaspoon paprika, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Mix well and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown to lock in the juices.
- Bake in Oven: Pour the prepared garlic butter sauce over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon some of the garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the chicken breasts. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs such as additional parsley before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve a perfect sear and can safely go from stovetop to oven.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For added flavor, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used alongside parsley.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad for a balanced meal.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
