This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s super simple to make! Juicy chicken breasts get coated in a buttery garlic sauce, bringing all the flavor you crave.
You’ll love how quick this meal comes together! I usually serve it with rice or veggies to soak up that yummy sauce. It’s a family favorite for a reason!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this dish because they cook quickly and stay moist. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs would work well too! They bring extra flavor and tenderness.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you better control over the dish’s saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings amazing flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar can substitute in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and paprika are optional but add depth. If you don’t have these, feel free to use Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs! Fresh herbs are always a nice touch if you have them on hand.
How Can I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting juicy, well-cooked chicken can be tricky. Here’s a simple way to ensure you nail it:
- Start with dry chicken: Patting the breasts dry helps them sear nicely!
- Use medium-high heat for searing: This creates a nice golden crust.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest: After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy!
Enjoy cooking this easy and hearty meal!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal option. In total, you can enjoy your garlic butter chicken in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, gently add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring it often to prevent burning.
4. Add Herbs and Deglaze:
If you’re using thyme, rosemary, or paprika, sprinkle them in now and stir to combine. Next, pour in the chicken broth (or water) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over them. Allow them to cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges if you like!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
FAQ about Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken, you can use frozen chicken breasts if they’re fully thawed first. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag, submerging in cold water until thawed. Pat them dry before cooking for best results.
What if I Don’t Have All the Herbs?
No worries! You can skip the thyme, rosemary, and paprika if you don’t have them on hand. Instead, consider using a tablespoon of Italian seasoning or just stick to the garlic butter base—you’ll still get a delicious meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to keep them moist. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prep ahead, cook the chicken and sauce separately, and store them in the fridge. Combine and reheat just before serving for a quick meal!
