There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken filling the kitchen. This dish brings back memories of Sunday dinners, when the whole family would gather around, eagerly awaiting the first bite of tender, golden-baked chicken smothered in a creamy, buttery sauce.

I first learned to make this recipe from my mom, who swore by its simplicity and rich flavor. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights or special occasions when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Butter Baked Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest and most delicious chicken recipes ever. Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is everything you want in a comforting, home-cooked meal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a mouthwatering dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

It’s also perfectly tender and juicy. The combination of butter and a creamy sauce ensures the chicken stays moist while baking to golden perfection.

If you love rich, indulgent flavors, this dish is for you. The butter and seasoned coating create a crispy, flavorful crust, while the sauce adds a velvety smoothness that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice.

And let’s not forget—it’s a family favorite! Kids and adults alike will devour every last bite, making it a great go-to recipe for any gathering.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in making this dish irresistible.

Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are a great option for extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer a leaner cut.

The crispy coating comes from a blend of flour and seasonings. I use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a well-balanced, flavorful crust that turns beautifully golden in the oven.

Butter is the key ingredient that gives this dish its signature richness. As it melts in the oven, it bastes the chicken, creating a crispy, buttery crust and infusing every bite with deep flavor.

To make the sauce, you'll need heavy cream or evaporated milk. This creamy addition balances out the buttery richness and ensures a luscious texture without overpowering the dish.

Lastly, if you want to elevate the dish, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh herbs can add an extra layer of flavor before serving.

How To Make Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken

Making this delicious dish is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a perfect, cozy meal in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken piece in this mixture, making sure it's evenly coated. The light flour coating helps create a crispy, golden crust once baked.

Next, melt butter in a baking dish and arrange the floured chicken on top. Bake for about 20 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken over. This allows both sides to absorb the buttery goodness and develop a crispy, golden exterior.

Once the chicken is lightly browned, pour heavy cream (or evaporated milk) over the top and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly, creating a rich, velvety coating for the chicken.

Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma as the flavors meld together in the oven. The chicken should be golden brown, tender, and juicy when done. Serve it hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), you can store them easily for later enjoyment.

For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

To freeze, transfer the chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat in the oven at 325°F for about 15–20 minutes, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to keep the sauce creamy. You can also microwave it in short bursts, but the oven will help maintain its crispy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be deliciously creamy.

For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. This will give you the same crispy coating without the wheat.

Spice lovers can add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a little kick. You can also mix in a bit of Dijon mustard to the sauce for extra tangy depth.

If you prefer a crunchier crust, try using crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with the flour. This will add a bit more texture while keeping the buttery, creamy goodness intact.

Finally, you can easily make this dish your own by adding mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions to the sauce. These extra ingredients bring more depth of flavor and make the dish even more satisfying.

No matter how you customize it, Mom’s Butter Baked Chicken is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to every meal. Give it a try and make some delicious memories with your loved ones!