This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is super tasty and super simple! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
If you’re like me, you’ll want to double the sauce because it’s just that good! I love serving it with rice or veggies to soak up all that buttery goodness. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs instead. They are a bit juicier!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute for a similar flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh is always best! Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can use white wine for a different flavor or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky since overcooking can make them dry. Here are some tips to ensure they’re juicy:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- If you’re unsure, you can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and juicy garlic butter chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme and oregano)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Then, season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Let it melt! Then, add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for about 1 minute until fragrant. Keep stirring to avoid burning the garlic—it should smell heavenly!
4. Add Broth and Herbs:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add lots of flavor! Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the dried Italian herbs and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. Bring It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the delicious garlic butter sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the chicken can soak up the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if you like a bit of zing. This chicken pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add a juicier texture and richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require an extra few minutes to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or scallops. Just adjust the cooking time: shrimp generally takes about 2-3 minutes per side, while scallops take about 3-4 minutes per side until they are cooked through and opaque.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan buttery spread. The flavors will still be delicious without the dairy!
