This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it super comforting. Yum!
I love how quickly this meal comes together—perfect for busy nights. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delightful dinner that everyone will enjoy. Can’t wait for leftovers! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs take a bit longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a heart-healthy spread or olive oil instead. It will still deliver good flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove. It’s a handy substitution!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is wonderful, but if you don’t have it, store-bought low-sodium chicken broth works just as well. Vegetable broth can also be used for a slightly different flavor while keeping it meat-free.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly requires a bit of attention. The aim is to achieve a golden brown exterior while ensuring the inside is juicy. Here are some tips:
- Always preheat the skillet—this helps to sear the chicken and keeps moisture locked in.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed so the chicken gets nice and browned instead of steaming.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making for a more tender bite.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy garlic butter chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious dish perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to the chicken as it cooks.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Let the butter melt completely, creating a lovely, rich base for the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, making sure they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Add Chicken Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the sauce reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
6. Return the Chicken:
Put the chicken back in the skillet, making sure to spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm the chicken through and let it absorb all that delicious sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Pair this garlic butter chicken with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely first for even cooking. The safest way is to thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a rush, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How to Adjust the Recipe for More Servings?
To scale up the recipe, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all the chicken breasts without overcrowding. You might need to cook in batches if necessary to maintain that delicious sear!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent the sauce from drying out.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables. A fresh salad or some crusty bread are also great options to soak up the lovely garlic butter sauce!
