This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in no time! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes everything better.
Plus, who can resist the smell of garlic cooking in butter? I swear my kitchen transforms into a restaurant! Serve it over rice or pasta for a meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are convenient and cook quickly. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor, or use tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can use olive oil or coconut oil instead. It won’t have the same creamy taste, but it’ll still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use jarred minced garlic, but fresh is always better in flavor. You can also reduce the amount if you’re not a huge garlic fan.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a burst of flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried basil and oregano works well too. Experiment with your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but here are some tips to help:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it helps to get a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (75°C) is the target temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked garlic butter chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps to get a nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Set aside to let the flavors mingle while you heat your skillet.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, stirring it around. Next, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to stir it gently to prevent burning!
4. Deglaze the Pan (Optional):
If you’re using chicken broth or white wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze. This will lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Using a spoon, baste the chicken with the garlic butter sauce, allowing it to soak in those wonderful flavors. Let it cook for another minute or two, just so everything is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a vibrant touch. Serve it warm with lemon wedges on the side for that extra burst of flavor, if you like.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy garlic butter chicken!
FAQ about Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can simply omit it or replace it with garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon should suffice). For a different flavor, you might try using shallots or minced onions, sautéing them in the butter for a lovely twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the chicken, then let it cool before placing it in an airtight container. You can make it up to 2 days in advance, then reheat and serve. Adding a bit more butter or broth while reheating can amp up the flavors again!
