Description
A reliable, juicy oven-baked chicken breast recipe using an herb butter rub to prevent dryness. This easy weeknight dinner takes only 15 minutes of active prep time and delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If uneven, pound thicker ends to achieve uniform 1/2-inch thickness.
- Season chicken generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, lemon zest, paprika, and red pepper flakes until a uniform paste forms.
- Place chicken in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the top of each breast, getting some under the edges if possible.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes without opening the oven door for the first 15 minutes.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes, loosely covered with foil.
- Slice against the grain and serve with pan juices spooned over the top.
Notes
Pounding the chicken to even thickness is crucial for uniform cooking. Do not overcook; pull at 160°F if using a thermometer as residual heat will bring it to 165°F. Resting the meat is essential to retain juices. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: oven-baked chicken, herb butter chicken, juicy chicken breast, easy weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken, high protein meal