Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
If you're like me, you often find yourself hunting for a perfect weeknight dinner that pleases both the kids and adults. Well, I recently paired this quick 3-ingredient chicken recipe with a refreshing side salad and fluffy rice. The combination was a hit! The juicy chicken complements the crispness of the salad beautifully, turning an ordinary evening into something special.
In this recipe, you’ll find chicken breast at its finest, assisted by melted butter and a sprinkle of salt. I've chosen to add a touch of garlic powder, which elevates the dish without complicating things too much. This adds a subtle depth of flavor that keeps each bite interesting without overwhelming the palate.
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
I slightly tweaked the classic combination by incorporating garlic powder. It brings a delightful essence that highlights the chicken's natural taste without overpowering it.
This portion outlines the simple steps to transform your ingredients into a satisfying dish. You won’t need any fancy equipment or special skills. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a yummy meal on your table in no time.
Start by assembling all your ingredients. Make sure you have your chicken, melted butter, salt, and that extra pinch of garlic powder ready to go. This way, you can move through the cooking process smoothly without any interruptions.
Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly, leading to that desirable juicy texture.
Grab a baking dish and lightly butter the bottom. This step helps your chicken from sticking and adds a bit more flavor during the cooking process.
In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, salt, and garlic powder. Make sure the ingredients are well combined. You'll want each piece of chicken to get that flavorful coating.
Place the chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. There’s no need to stress about spacing; they’ll cook just fine.
Using a brush or a spoon, coat the chicken generously with the butter mixture. Make sure every piece is thoroughly covered, as this will keep the meat moist and enhance the flavor.
Pop the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. To check for doneness, an instant-read thermometer should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
Once your chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help juice up the chicken even more before serving.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts will yield the best flavor.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is melted but not hot enough to cook the chicken when brushing.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and extra flavor when serving.
- Check the Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest before cutting ensures juices are locked in.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave or a gentle oven setting until warmed through. This keeps the chicken tender and delicious.
Each serving of this dish is approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for those counting their intake. Packed with protein, it’s a great choice for muscle recovery and keeping energy levels up.
- Pair with Rice: Serve over a fluffy bed of rice for a comforting meal.
- Add a Side Salad: A garden salad with fresh veggies enhances the dish's nutritional value.
- Serve with Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans complement the chicken nicely.
- Make a Wrap: Use the chicken in whole-grain wraps with some fresh greens.
- Top with Salsa: Spoon some fresh salsa on top for a zesty twist.
- Chicken Thighs:Using boneless, skinless thighs can add extra juiciness.
- Olive Oil:Substituting melted butter with olive oil gives a different but delightful flavor.
- Herbs:Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for more depth.
- Lemon Juice:A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
- Spicy Seasoning:For a kick, try using paprika or cayenne pepper instead of garlic powder.
This 3-ingredient chicken recipe takes simplicity to a whole new level. With just a few basic components, you can create a dish that packs a punch in flavor without requiring slave labor in your kitchen. It’s adaptable, quick to prepare, and a family favorite. Dress it up with salads or serve it alongside hearty grains. Wherever it lands, this chicken is sure to be a hit!
Servings 4
I'm Rosa Crumley, a registered dietitian and food enthusiast from Pittsburgh, PA. With a love for chef-inspired recipes and a passion for creating delicious, balanced meals, I aim to bring gourmet flavors into your home kitchen. Through my blog, I share simple, flavorful dishes that anyone can cook!