This incredibly juicy Garlic Butter Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero! Ready in just 20 minutes, this SIMPLE and DELICIOUS skillet chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts swimming in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that your whole family will love!
Quick Recipe Overview
If you’re searching for a foolproof chicken dinner that delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes, this garlic butter chicken recipe is your answer! With just a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, you can create a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this easy garlic butter chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Note: The quality of your butter and garlic will make a big difference in the final taste. I recommend using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced for the best flavor!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:
- First, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t skimp on the seasoning – this is your foundation of flavor!
- Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add your seasoned chicken breasts and let them cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set aside. Now comes the magic – making that luscious garlic butter sauce!
- Reduce the heat to medium and add your butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Let the garlic dance in the butter for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
- Return your chicken to the pan and spoon that heavenly garlic butter sauce all over it. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors can meld.
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
Tip 1: Getting the Perfect Sear
The key to juicy chicken with a golden crust is to resist the urge to move it around in the pan. Place your chicken in the hot skillet and don’t touch it for at least 5 minutes. This allows that beautiful golden crust to develop.
Tip 2: Don’t Burn the Garlic
When making the garlic butter sauce, keep a close eye on your garlic. It can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds! If your pan is too hot, remove it from the heat briefly while adding the garlic.
Tip 3: Temperature Matters
Let your chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep all those flavorful juices inside. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They’re actually more forgiving and harder to overcook than breasts. Just adjust cooking time accordingly – thighs typically need a few extra minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I make this dairy-free?
While the butter adds richness, you can substitute it with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The garlic flavor will still be delicious!
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- A fresh green salad
- Crusty bread for sauce-mopping
Remember to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor!
Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Set the chicken aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and golden.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Add a pinch of paprika for a smoky kick.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors perfectly!
