Ingredients:

  • 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 6-8 oz each)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (Sweet or Smoked)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
  • 4 thin slices Fresh Lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch). Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning until well combined into a fragrant paste.
  4. Spoon half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts. Allow the remaining butter mixture to sit at room temperature while the chicken rests briefly (10 minutes).
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. If using, place one thin lemon slice on top of each breast.
  6. Bake for 12 minutes.
  7. Remove the dish from the oven. Spoon the remaining garlic butter mixture evenly over the partially cooked chicken. Return to the oven and bake for another 6–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Remove chicken from the oven. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole. This allows the temperature to rise to 165°F (74°C) and keeps the meat juicy.