Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

PREP:

• Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 425ºF.
• Pound the thickest part of the chicken breast using the flat portion of a meat mallet (with a piece of plastic wrap placed on top of the breast.)
• This will ensure even cooking.
• Combine the salt, paprika, black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
• Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this seasoning.
• You can allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 5-20 minutes if you have time, or cook it immediately.

SEAR :

• Add the oil to a cast-iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet) over medium-high heat.
• When the oil is hot add the chicken breasts in a single layer and sear for roughly 1-2 minutes on each side.
• You don’t want to cook them all the way through, just give it a nice crust on both sides.

GARLIC BUTTER :

• While the chicken is cooking, combine the butter, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
• Zap in the microwave in 15-20 second increments until the butter melts and all the ingredients combine.

ROAST:

• Pour the garlic butter over the chicken breasts and place the skillet in the oven for 10-14 minutes OR until the chicken cooks all the way through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.
• Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.