There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken—a dish that instantly transports you back to childhood dinners at the family table. The golden, crispy crust, the tender, juicy chicken, and the rich, buttery sauce come together to create a meal that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.

I remember the first time my mom taught me how to make this dish. She pulled out her well-worn casserole dish, melted a generous amount of butter, and patiently coated each piece of chicken in a simple but flavorful mixture. The aroma that filled the kitchen was pure magic, and the first bite was even better. It quickly became a staple in our home, and now, I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Baked Chicken

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Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that’s easy, indulgent, and perfect for any night of the week. Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is a true family favorite, and here’s why it deserves a spot on your table.

First off, this dish is incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep time, you’ll have a meal that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.

The rich, buttery sauce infuses the chicken with so much flavor while keeping it moist and tender. It practically melts in your mouth, making every bite irresistible.

It’s also budget-friendly! Made with affordable ingredients like chicken, butter, and a simple coating mix, this dish won’t break the bank but will still feel like an indulgence.

And let’s not forget its kid-approved appeal. Picky eaters love this chicken for its crispy, golden crust and mild, comforting taste. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal the whole family will devour.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish absolutely irresistible.

Chicken breasts or thighs are the star of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender, but if you love white meat, chicken breasts work beautifully too.

Butter is the key to achieving that rich flavor and golden-brown crust. Use real butter, not margarine, for the best results. The butter not only adds taste but also helps the chicken develop a crisp, flavorful coating.

Flour and seasonings create the perfect crust. A simple mixture of all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika gives the chicken just the right balance of flavor and texture.

Milk and chicken broth work together to create a silky, savory sauce. The milk adds a slight creaminess, while the broth deepens the flavor, making the dish even more irresistible.

A shallow baking dish is all you need to bring this recipe together. The butter melts into a golden pool, coating the chicken perfectly as it bakes.

How To Make This Butter Baked Chicken

Creating this irresistible dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a home-cooked meal that tastes like pure comfort.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, melt a generous amount of butter in a large, shallow baking dish. The butter will coat the bottom and help crisp up the chicken as it bakes.

Next, prepare your coating mixture. In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated on all sides.

Place the coated chicken pieces into the melted butter, arranging them in a single layer. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the bottom to crisp up in the buttery goodness.

After the initial bake, carefully flip each piece of chicken. Pour a mixture of warm milk and chicken broth over the top, then return the dish to the oven for another 20-25 minutes. This step infuses the chicken with even more flavor and moisture, ensuring it stays tender.

Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. The buttery sauce left in the dish is perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or rice!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken stores beautifully for easy meals later in the week.

To store in the refrigerator, place cooled chicken in an airtight container and keep it for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes to maintain its crispy texture.

For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

If reheating in the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. A few quick bursts on medium power should do the trick.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is how versatile it is. Here are some delicious ways to switch things up:

Try different seasonings. Swap out the garlic and onion powder for Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or even a hint of smoked paprika for a new twist.

Use buttermilk instead of milk. Buttermilk adds a subtle tanginess and makes the chicken even more tender. It’s a great option if you have it on hand.

Make it gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and double-check that your seasonings are gluten-free.

Go for a cheesy twist. Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan over the top before the final bake for a nutty, cheesy flavor boost.

No matter how you customize it, this recipe is all about bringing comfort and flavor to your table. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s been a family favorite for generations!