There's something incredibly comforting about a home-cooked meal, and Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is the definition of cozy, nostalgic comfort food. The rich aroma of butter and seasonings fills the house as it bakes, making it nearly impossible to wait until dinnertime. The tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a creamy, buttery sauce is the kind of meal that brings families together around the table.

I remember the first time I tried making this dish on my own. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I wanted something that tasted just like home. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I was able to recreate the magic of my mom’s cooking. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to treat my loved ones to something special.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Baked Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with a classic comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

First off, this recipe is incredibly simple. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep work, you can have a hearty meal ready for the oven in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also wonderfully rich and flavorful. The combination of butter, cream, and seasonings creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite of tender chicken. Each piece soaks up all the goodness, making every forkful irresistible.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s family-friendly and budget-friendly. Chicken is one of the most affordable proteins, and because this recipe uses basic ingredients, it’s easy on the wallet. Plus, even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy, buttery goodness.

Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day—if not better!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that rich, comforting flavor.

Chicken breasts or thighs are the stars of this dish. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay incredibly juicy and tender while baking. However, if you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts work just as well.

Butter is essential in creating the luxurious sauce. As it melts, it helps brown the chicken slightly while adding a deep, rich flavor. For the best results, use real, unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.

Cream of chicken soup acts as the base for the creamy sauce. It thickens beautifully while baking and adds a savory depth of flavor. If you prefer a homemade version, you can make a quick roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth.

Milk helps to create a smooth and creamy texture. I recommend using whole milk for the richest consistency, but 2% will also work. Avoid skim milk, as it won’t give you the same velvety sauce.

Lastly, seasonings bring it all together. A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish. Feel free to add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth.

How To Make This Butter Baked Chicken

Creating this mouthwatering Butter Baked Chicken is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This will also help enhance the buttery flavor of the dish.

Next, arrange your chicken pieces in the baking dish in a single layer. If using chicken breasts, you might want to pound them slightly for even cooking. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the top, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Then, dot the top with slices of butter—this step is key to getting that rich, golden flavor as it bakes.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the chicken to develop a slightly golden top while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. Spoon some of that creamy butter sauce over the top for the ultimate indulgence!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Butter Baked Chicken stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

To store in the refrigerator, place cooled leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

For freezing, store the fully cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is simple—just warm in the oven at 300°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can tweak it to fit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Want a lighter version? Swap out the cream of chicken soup for a homemade sauce using low-fat milk and cornstarch. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed alternative.

For an extra kick of flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, umami depth to the dish.

Looking for a crispy topping? Sprinkle buttery cracker crumbs (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs over the top before baking. This creates a delicious golden crust.

If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative. Coconut milk works well, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.

Feel free to get creative! Whether you add mushrooms, swap the protein, or tweak the seasonings, this dish is incredibly forgiving and always turns out delicious.

With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly tender chicken, Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home—just like it is in mine!