There's something truly special about Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken—the kind of dish that fills the house with rich, buttery aromas and brings everyone to the dinner table in an instant. The golden-brown crust, tender chicken, and creamy sauce make this a comforting classic that never fails to impress.

I remember watching my mom make this when I was little, mesmerized by how a few simple ingredients could create something so incredibly delicious. It’s a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying, making it a staple in our family’s meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Butter Baked Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with a new comfort food favorite! This Butter Baked Chicken is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a simple prep process, you can have this dish in the oven in no time.

It’s also budget-friendly. Made with affordable ingredients like chicken breasts, butter, and a creamy sauce, this meal proves that you don’t need expensive ingredients to create something delicious.

Not to mention, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of butter, seasoning, and a creamy sauce creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s impossible to resist.

Finally, this dish is versatile. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta to soak up all that luscious sauce. No matter how you serve it, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Butter Baked Chicken is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Chicken breasts are the heart of this recipe. Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for an easy-to-eat dish. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite.

Butter is the key to getting that golden-brown, crispy crust. It adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish, creating a restaurant-quality taste at home.

Flour and seasonings work together to create a light, crispy coating for the chicken. A mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Milk and cream of chicken soup form the base of the luscious, creamy sauce that brings everything together. The soup adds depth, while the milk keeps the consistency smooth and velvety.

If you have a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish, it will work best for this recipe. A glass baking dish also does the trick, ensuring even cooking and a beautifully golden top.

How To Make This Butter Baked Chicken

Creating this dish is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, prepare your chicken by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for color and flavor.

In a shallow dish, coat the chicken lightly in flour. This step helps create a crisp exterior while locking in moisture, ensuring that each bite is juicy and tender.

Next, melt butter in a baking dish in the oven. Once melted, carefully place the floured chicken breasts in the dish, letting them sizzle in the butter. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

While the chicken bakes, mix together milk and cream of chicken soup until smooth. After the initial baking time, pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling beautifully. The result? A rich, buttery, and flavorful dish that practically melts in your mouth.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Butter Baked Chicken stores beautifully.

For short-term storage, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let the chicken thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave in 30-second intervals, though the oven maintains the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences.

If you want a lighter version, swap out the butter for a reduced-fat alternative and use low-fat milk instead of whole milk. The flavor will still be amazing while cutting down on richness.

For an extra herby twist, sprinkle in fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley before baking. These fresh herbs add a bright contrast to the creamy, buttery sauce.

Prefer a cheesier version? Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the sauce before pouring it over the chicken. The melted cheese adds another layer of irresistible flavor.

Want to make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend for coating the chicken and check that your cream of chicken soup is labeled gluten-free.

This dish is all about comfort and customization, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!