Introduction
Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its tender, juicy chicken baked in a rich, buttery sauce, this dish is a family favorite. The crispy golden crust and creamy texture make it an irresistible home-cooked meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special gatherings.
Origin of Butter Baked Chicken
Butter baked chicken has roots in American home cooking, where simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create hearty meals. This dish embodies traditional comfort food, relying on butter, cream, and seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. It has been passed down through generations, with each family adding its own twist.
Ingredients
To prepare Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken, you will need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Method of Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coating.
- Sear in Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and lightly brown the chicken on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Transfer to a baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix heavy cream, chicken broth, dried thyme, and onion powder. Pour over the chicken.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and the sauce thickens.
- Serve Warm: Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese before baking.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the searing step: This helps lock in moisture and adds a crispy crust.
- Overbaking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer and ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Not seasoning the flour properly: Seasoning enhances the overall taste.
Serving Tips
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken: High in protein and essential vitamins.
- Butter: Provides healthy fats and enhances flavor.
- Thyme: Contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: Support immune health and digestion.
Why People Love Butter Baked Chicken
This dish is loved for its rich, creamy flavor and tender texture. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food that feels indulgent yet simple. The buttery sauce enhances the chicken’s juiciness, making every bite satisfying.
Interesting Facts About Butter Baked Chicken
- This dish is a variation of classic baked chicken recipes that have been around for centuries.
- Butter has been used in cooking since ancient times, especially in European cuisines.
- Some versions of this recipe include adding cheese or Dijon mustard for extra depth.
Summarized Recipe
Ingredients: Chicken, butter, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, onion powder.
Steps: Coat and sear chicken → Place in baking dish → Mix and pour sauce → Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes → Serve warm.
Conclusion
Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. Whether served for a family meal or a special occasion, it’s a simple yet indulgent recipe that will always be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and experience the rich, buttery goodness!
