Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella is a savory and satisfying meal that combines juicy chicken, fragrant garlic butter sauce, and melted cheese. This dish offers the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether served with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or rice, this baked chicken recipe pleases a variety of palates. The recipe uses familiar pantry ingredients yet delivers rich results. Each bite of tender chicken infused with minced garlic and topped with shredded mozzarella proves how effortless a delicious dinner can be.
For detailed food safety information about cooking chicken properly, refer to the USDA Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart.
Looking for more comforting, easy-to-make dishes? Try these popular recipes from our collection:
- Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe – A smooth, rich, and creamy dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Chicken Sausage and Wild Rice Casserole – A hearty, balanced one-dish meal that’s family approved.
- Split Peas – A warm and nourishing bowl ideal for colder days.
- Hanover Baby Lima Beans – Simple, buttery beans that make a perfect side.
- Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Recipe – A restaurant-style seafood classic you can make at home.
Jump to
Ingredients for baked garlic butter chicken
A full list of ingredients for the brine, sauce, and cheesy topping ensures success with this baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella.
Brine Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons cold butter, cut into cubes
- 10 garlic cloves (4 minced, 6 whole)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Topping:
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- Chopped parsley or basil (optional)
The combination of mozzarella cheese, garlic butter sauce, and brined chicken breasts results in an incredibly flavorful meal.
Brine the chicken for our baked garlic butter chicken:
Brining is the foundation of baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella. It helps the meat retain moisture and absorb flavor throughout. Begin by combining water, salt, sugar, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Stir until dissolved, then add the chicken breasts to the brine.
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, but for best results, allow the chicken to soak for 4 to 12 hours. This extra step yields tender chicken that bakes evenly and maintains flavor. After brining, remove the meat and pat dry with paper towels to help it brown properly during baking.
This simple process sets the stage for a perfect baked chicken with mozzarella.
How to cook the garlic butter sauce for baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella
The sauce in baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella provides a flavorful base that enhances every element. Start by heating the chicken broth and minced garlic in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the broth to simmer for five minutes so the garlic can infuse the liquid.
Then, reduce the heat and gradually whisk in cold butter, one cube at a time. Let each cube melt before adding the next to build a smooth, rich garlic butter sauce. Stir in black pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes to complete the flavor. Adding whole garlic cloves at the end adds depth as they roast in the oven with the chicken.
This carefully balanced pan sauce elevates the entire baked chicken recipe, coating every bite with richness and aroma.
Putting the garlic butter chicken together:
Once the brine and sauce are ready, assembling baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella is straightforward. Preheat the oven to 425°F and lightly grease a baking dish. Season the chicken with a mix of onion powder, thyme, and garlic powder for an extra layer of taste.
Arrange the chicken in the dish and carefully pour the garlic butter sauce around it. Place the six whole garlic cloves into the sauce. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove the dish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each piece, and return it to the oven under the broiler. Broil just until the mozzarella cheese is golden and bubbling. Serve this baked garlic butter chicken hot, paired with a simple side for a balanced meal.
How to make baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella
Full instructions combining all steps for easy execution ensure that your baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella comes together smoothly. Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Prepare the brine using water, salt, sugar, soy sauce, and spices. Soak the chicken breasts for at least 15 minutes, ideally up to 12 hours.
- Step 2: Create the garlic butter sauce by simmering minced garlic and broth, then whisking in butter and seasonings.
- Step 3: Dry the brined chicken and season it with extra herbs. Arrange it in a baking dish greased with olive oil.
- Step 4: Pour the sauce around the chicken and bake it at 425°F until cooked through.
- Step 5: Add shredded mozzarella on top and broil briefly to melt the mozzarella cheese.
Each of these steps contributes to the rich texture and flavor of your baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella.
How to serve garlic butter chicken
There are many ways to enjoy baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella. The rich, savory flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
- Serve with mashed potatoes to soak up the garlic butter sauce
- Pair with rice or buttered noodles for a complete meal
- Add a green salad or roasted vegetables for balance
- Enjoy with crusty bread to scoop up extra sauce
Because the chicken is brined and baked, it stays juicy and flavorful even when reheated. Store any leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
This baked chicken with mozzarella is perfect for family dinners or as a make-ahead dish for guests. No matter if you choose chicken thighs or baked chicken breast, the outcome is consistently flavorful and satisfying.
FAQ
How long to cook butter chicken in the oven?
When preparing baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella, cooking time will vary slightly based on the thickness of your chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Generally, bake uncovered at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes. Always check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F before serving. Always check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
How to bake garlic chicken in the oven?
To make baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella, season your meat and place it in a greased dish with garlic butter sauce. Bake at 400°F to 425°F until the chicken is cooked through. Add shredded mozzarella and broil briefly. This method results in juicy, flavorful baked chicken with mozzarella and crispy golden cheese.
Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400?
For baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella, baking at 400°F or higher is ideal. Higher temperatures help lock in moisture and create a slightly crisp exterior. Baking at 350°F is still safe but may produce softer results and require longer cooking times. For the best tender chicken, stick to 400°F or 425°F.
How to make garlic butter roasted chicken?
To prepare garlic butter roasted chicken, combine minced garlic, melted butter, herbs, and seasoning. Pour the mixture over seasoned chicken and bake until golden and tender. This is the same foundation used in baked garlic butter chicken with mozzarella, with the added step of topping it with mozzarella cheese for an irresistible finish.