Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast Recipe – Easy Low Carb Dinner

Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, garlic butter baked chicken breast is the perfect low carb dinner that comes together in no time. This recipe blends the rich taste of garlic butter with the lean protein of baked chicken, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re following keto, watching carbs, or just want a quick and easy dinner, this dish will soon become a household favorite. In this article, we’ll cover everything from ingredients to step-by-step cooking tips, plus side dish ideas and variations so you can enjoy this recipe any night of the week.

PART 1: Introduction to Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Why baked chicken breast is a healthy low carb dinner choice

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that works beautifully in low carb and keto-friendly diets. Unlike fried or breaded chicken, baked chicken breast keeps calories in check while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal. By baking instead of frying, you avoid excess oil and still get tender, flavorful meat that fits into a balanced lifestyle.

The role of garlic butter in enhancing flavor and texture

Garlic butter is the secret weapon in this recipe. The rich, creamy butter locks in moisture, while the garlic infuses the chicken with irresistible aroma and taste. Together, they transform plain chicken breast into a restaurant-quality dish right from your oven. The melted garlic butter not only adds flavor but also helps create a golden, juicy finish that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

PART 2: Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Essential ingredients for the recipe

To prepare this easy garlic butter baked chicken breast, you only need a handful of kitchen staples. Here’s what makes the base of the recipe:

• Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless, about 6–8 ounces each
• Butter – Unsalted butter works best for controlling salt levels
• Garlic – Freshly minced for maximum flavor, though garlic powder can be used in a pinch
• Olive oil – A small drizzle helps the chicken brown beautifully
• Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning for a balanced taste
• Fresh parsley – Chopped and sprinkled over the top for a fresh finish

These ingredients are simple yet powerful, turning an everyday chicken breast into a flavorful low carb dinner.

Optional add-ins and variations for more flavor

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Cheese topping – Add a layer of mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan before baking for a cheesy twist
• Spice lovers – Mix cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the garlic butter for a spicy kick
• Citrus touch – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before baking for brightness
• Herb upgrade – Swap parsley for thyme, rosemary, or basil to change the flavor profile

This flexibility means you can enjoy garlic butter baked chicken in new ways each time without losing the core low carb benefits.

PART 3: Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the chicken breast before baking

To ensure your garlic butter baked chicken turns out tender and juicy, proper prep is key.

1. Pound the chicken – Use a meat mallet to pound the breasts to even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and prevents dryness.
2. Pat dry – Remove excess moisture with paper towels. A dry surface helps the seasonings and garlic butter stick better.
3. Season generously – Rub the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning for a flavor-packed base.

Baking time, temperature, and tips for juicy results

Once prepped, it’s time to bake your chicken to golden perfection.

1. Preheat oven – Set it to 400°F (200°C) for the ideal balance of tenderness and browning.
2. Prepare garlic butter – In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over each chicken breast.
3. Bake uncovered – Place chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
4. Check doneness – Use a meat thermometer. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest before serving – Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Here’s a quick reference table for different chicken breast sizes and their baking times:

Chicken Breast Size	Oven Temp	Bake Time	Internal Temp
6 oz	400°F	18–20 min	165°F
8 oz	400°F	22–25 min	165°F
10 oz	400°F	25–28 min	165°F

Following these steps ensures you’ll have garlic butter baked chicken breasts that are tender, flavorful, and never dry.

PART 4: Nutritional Benefits of Low Carb Garlic Butter Chicken

Protein-rich, low carb, and keto-friendly benefits

Garlic butter baked chicken breast isn’t just tasty—it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. Each serving delivers a high dose of lean protein, which helps build muscle, keeps you full longer, and supports weight management. Since the recipe uses no breading or starchy fillers, it remains naturally low carb and keto-friendly, making it ideal for anyone following a low carb lifestyle. The butter adds healthy fats that complement a keto diet, while garlic provides antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds.

On average, one medium-sized chicken breast (about 6–8 oz) baked with garlic butter provides:

• Calories: 280–320
• Protein: 30–35g
• Carbohydrates: 1–2g
• Fat: 15–18g

This balance makes it a satisfying dinner option that won’t spike blood sugar or leave you feeling sluggish.

Comparison of baked chicken vs fried chicken calories

Baking chicken is one of the healthiest cooking methods compared to frying. Fried chicken, while crispy, soaks up a large amount of oil, leading to excess calories and unhealthy fats. In contrast, baked chicken maintains flavor and juiciness without the added grease.

Cooking Method	Calories (per 6 oz breast)	Carbs	Fat	Protein
Baked chicken	~300	1–2g	15–18g	30–35g
Fried chicken	~450–500	10–15g	25–30g	28–32g

By choosing baked garlic butter chicken, you enjoy a guilt-free dinner that’s both waistline-friendly and nutrient-rich, without sacrificing flavor.

PART 5: Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Every Time

How to prevent chicken breast from drying out

Chicken breast is lean, which makes it prone to drying out if overcooked. To keep it juicy and flavorful, follow these tips:

• Even thickness – Pound chicken to a uniform size so it cooks evenly.
• Don’t skip resting – Allow chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking to seal in juices.
• Use a meat thermometer – Pull the chicken out of the oven when it hits 165°F (74°C). Anything higher can make it tough.
• Cover loosely if needed – If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent overcooking while the inside finishes.

Best marinades, seasonings, and storage hacks

While garlic butter is the star, you can boost flavor and extend freshness with these simple tricks:

• Marinades – Try soaking chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before adding garlic butter. It tenderizes the meat and adds brightness.
• Extra seasoning ideas – Add smoked paprika, onion powder, or Cajun spice for different taste profiles.
• Storage tips – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze baked chicken breasts for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven to keep them moist.
• Meal prep hack – Slice or cube baked chicken breasts and store in meal prep containers with low carb sides for easy weekday lunches.

With these tips, you’ll master garlic butter baked chicken breast and avoid the common pitfalls of dryness or blandness.

PART 6: Serving Ideas and Side Dishes

Low carb side dish pairings (cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, etc.)

Garlic butter baked chicken breast is versatile, making it easy to pair with plenty of low carb side dishes. Here are some top choices to keep your meal healthy and satisfying:

• Cauliflower rice – A light, grain-free substitute for traditional rice that soaks up garlic butter perfectly.
• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – A fun, pasta-like option that keeps carbs low while adding extra veggies.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Crispy and caramelized, they pair beautifully with the richness of garlic butter.
• Steamed broccoli or asparagus – Simple greens that balance the savory chicken.
• Keto mashed cauliflower – Creamy, buttery, and a perfect potato alternative.

These pairings keep your dinner light, flavorful, and 100% low carb.

How to serve it for family dinners or meal prep

This recipe shines whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week.

• Family dinners – Serve whole chicken breasts alongside your favorite vegetables and a fresh green salad. Add a squeeze of lemon on top for brightness.
• Meal prep containers – Slice baked chicken and pair with roasted veggies or cauliflower rice in portioned boxes. They store well and reheat without losing flavor.
• Entertaining guests – Plate chicken with garlic butter drizzled on top and garnish with fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.

No matter the occasion, garlic butter baked chicken breast fits seamlessly into your meal plan, making it both practical and impressive.

PART 7: Variations of Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Spicy garlic butter chicken variation

If you love a little heat, turning this recipe into a spicy version is easy. Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika to the garlic butter mixture before brushing it onto the chicken. This gives the chicken a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of butter. For an extra bold flavor, drizzle a touch of sriracha or hot sauce over the baked chicken right before serving.

Cheesy garlic butter chicken recipe option

For cheese lovers, a cheesy twist makes this dish even more comforting. After brushing the chicken with garlic butter, sprinkle a generous layer of parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar on top. Bake as directed, allowing the cheese to melt into a bubbly golden crust. This version feels indulgent but still keeps carbs low, making it a great choice for weeknights when you want something cozy and satisfying.

These variations prove that garlic butter baked chicken breast isn’t a one-note recipe. You can adjust flavors to fit your mood—spicy for energy, cheesy for comfort, or classic for everyday meals.

PART 8: FAQs About Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving than breasts since they have higher fat content. If you use thighs, bake them at the same temperature (400°F), but allow 25–30 minutes depending on their size. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

How long can baked chicken be stored in the fridge?

Baked garlic butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or warm gently in a skillet with a little extra butter to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may dry out the chicken.

Can I make this garlic butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. You can either:

• Prep ahead: Season the chicken and prepare the garlic butter mixture, then store them separately in the fridge. Bake when ready.
• Cook ahead: Bake the chicken completely and store it in portioned containers for easy grab-and-go meals during the week.

Both methods save time while ensuring you always have a healthy, flavorful dinner option on hand.

PART 9: Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Garlic butter baked chicken breast is more than just another chicken recipe—it’s a simple, flavorful, and healthy low carb dinner you can rely on any night of the week. With just a few pantry staples, you can transform plain chicken into a juicy, golden dish that feels restaurant-worthy but takes less than 30 minutes to make at home.

This recipe is versatile, too. You can keep it classic with the original garlic butter, spice it up for a bold kick, or add cheese for extra indulgence. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of low carb side dishes, making it a flexible option for family dinners, entertaining, or weekly meal prep.

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and keto-friendly, this garlic butter baked chicken breast deserves a permanent spot on your recipe list. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite for so many home cooks.