Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
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In an oven-safe skillet or frying pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan.
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Cook the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust.
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Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
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Bake the chicken breasts in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are no longer pink in the center.
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Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy result.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the garlic butter chicken breast with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before eating, if desired, for a tangy flavor.
Enjoy your flavorful and tender garlic butter chicken breast!