Oh, let me tell you about a recipe that holds a very special place in my heart: Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken. This dish has been a family staple for as long as I can remember. I can practically smell the buttery aroma wafting through the house right now as I think back to those cozy Sunday dinners when it would grace our table. My mom would slip it into the oven, and within minutes, the anticipation would build as we awaited that delicious, golden-brown chicken. It’s a recipe that wraps you in a warm hug and makes you feel right at home!
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and comfort. Plus, there’s just something so magical about that crispy skin combined with the tender, juicy chicken on the inside. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a taste of home to your kitchen!
What’s in Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken?
Chicken Breasts (bone-in, skin-on): The star of the show! Bone-in and skin-on keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Unsalted Butter: This gives the dish its rich, buttery flavor. I recommend using good quality butter because it truly makes a difference!
Milk: The milk combines with the butter for a creamy base that coats the chicken beautifully. You can use whole or 2% milk; both work great.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps create that delicious, crispy coating. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Garlic Powder: Just the right amount of garlicky goodness without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder: Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Paprika: I love paprikas like smoked for an extra rich aroma and color, but any type you prefer will do.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
Fresh Parsley: This is purely for garnish, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Is Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken Good for You?
Oh, my friends, let’s have a little heart-to-heart here. While Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken feels like a cozy cuddle, it’s definitely not a dish you’re going to find in a health food book! The creamy butter and flour coating make this a rich comfort meal.
Butter: It is high in calories and saturated fat, but enjoyed in moderation, it adds rich flavor and a lovely texture.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein; plus, when cooked on the bone with the skin, it retains more moisture and flavor.
Because of the richness, I like to serve this with lighter sides, like steamed veggies or a refreshing salad, which balances out the meal perfectly.
Ingredients List
– 4 chicken breasts (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, but let’s be real, if it’s as good as it sounds, you might want to make a little extra!
How to Make Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation just adds to the excitement!
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it up until it looks uniform.
3. In another dish, pour the melted butter and milk together. This is where the magic begins!
4. Take each chicken breast and dip it into the butter and milk mixture, coating it generously. Get in there!
5. Next, roll the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated. Make sure every bit is covered for maximum flavor.
6. Place the coated chicken breasts into a baking dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer.
7. Pour any leftover butter and milk mixture over the top of the chicken. We don’t waste good flavor here!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy—yum!
9. Once cooked, take it out and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps all those juicy flavors settle in.
10. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor.
Little Extra Love for Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken
I like to serve this hearty dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes or some bright, steamed vegetables. If you find you have leftovers (which rarely happens in my household!), store them in the fridge, and they make a delicious lunch the next day. Just reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through—sometimes, it tastes even better the next day!
So there you have it! Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming trip down memory lane. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share in the joy it brings. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out—you might just become the new family favorite chef! Happy cooking!
