Name: Butter Baked Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for sauce); 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for added flavor)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is all about minimal effort and maximum flavor. The chicken is coated in a light seasoning or breading, then baked in melted butter for a tender, juicy result with a crisp, golden crust. It’s fuss-free, family-friendly, and oven-baked, which means no splatter or babysitting required. Plus, it delivers incredible aroma and comfort with every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
All-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Unsalted butter
Milk or heavy cream (optional for sauce)
Chicken broth (optional for added flavor)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a shallow bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess.
In the baking dish, melt the butter (place in oven for a few minutes if needed).
Place coated chicken pieces into the buttered dish, turning to coat both sides in the melted butter.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even browning.
For a creamy version, add a splash of milk or chicken broth during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Bake until chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Creamy Butter Chicken: Add ½ cup of cream or condensed soup to create a rich sauce.
Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy crust.
Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little heat.
Herbed: Mix in dried Italian herbs, rosemary, or thyme for added flavor.
Bone-In Chicken: Use drumsticks or thighs for juicier results; increase cook time by 10–15 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
To freeze, let chicken cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks through. Use a thermometer to check for 165°F internally.

Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?

Flipping halfway through ensures both sides get golden and crispy from the butter.

What sides go best with butter baked chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, roasted carrots, or steamed broccoli are all great choices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and keep it coated in the fridge a few hours ahead. Bake just before serving for best results.

Does this work with skin-on chicken?

Yes, skin-on chicken will become extra crispy and flavorful, just drain off excess butter if needed.

Can I use breadcrumbs instead of flour?

Yes, breadcrumbs create a crispier texture. Panko works especially well.

How do I prevent sogginess?

Bake uncovered and avoid overcrowding the pan so the chicken can brown properly.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Yes, add hardy vegetables like carrots or potatoes around the chicken to cook together in the buttery sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging instead of all-purpose flour.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze fully cooked and cooled chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Butter Baked Chicken is a cozy, crave-worthy meal that’s quick to prepare and always satisfying. With a golden, buttery crust and juicy interior, it’s a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served for a family dinner or prepped for easy lunches, this dish delivers home-cooked comfort with minimal effort.

Butter Baked Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Butter Baked Chicken is a simple, comforting dish featuring seasoned, lightly breaded chicken baked in melted butter until golden and juicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy meals with the family.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Pour melted butter into the baking dish. Add the coated chicken, turning to coat both sides in butter.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
For a creamier dish, add milk or chicken broth during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Bake until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use bone-in chicken for juicier results; adjust cook time accordingly.
Panko or Parmesan can be added to the flour for a crunchier crust.
Do not cover the dish while baking to ensure a crispy texture.
Add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to bake alongside the chicken in the butter sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh
Calories: 390
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 115mg