This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. Juicy chicken is cooked with buttery garlic, making it super flavorful and perfect for any night of the week!
You won’t believe how simple and delicious this is. Just sauté the chicken, add a bit of garlic, and let that butter do its magic! I love serving it with rice, and my family is always asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier. Alternatively, tofu can be used for a vegetarian version!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace it with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. I love the richness butter adds, but it’s great to have choices!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. You can also use garlic powder if that’s all you have, but fresh is best for that aromatic kick! I find that roasting garlic adds a nice sweetness too.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley work well, but fresh herbs always enhance flavor. If you can’t find fresh herbs, Italian seasoning can also work in a pinch. I enjoy adding fresh basil sometimes for a different twist!
Chicken Broth: This is optional, but it adds depth to the sauce. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, or if you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works just as well. Water can be a last resort if you don’t have either!
How Do I Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but getting it juicy and tender is easy with a few tips. Properly seasoning and cooking it at the right temperature makes a big difference. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps with browning and flavor.
- Use medium-high heat when cooking; this will give you a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the chicken after cooking for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
With these tips, you’ll have juicy chicken every time! Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a simple yet delicious meal!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for sauce)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, from 1/2 lemon)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter chicken will take around 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then 15-20 minutes cooking them in the skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Combine and Simmer:
If you’re using chicken broth and lemon juice, pour them into the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. This step will enhance the flavor, making your garlic butter really shine!
5. Return Chicken to the Skillet:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top to coat. Let it heat for another 1-2 minutes to warm through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad and enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but you need to fully thaw it first! To thaw frozen chicken quickly, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the garlic butter sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to moisten.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! If you’re out of chicken, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option. For herbs, you can use Italian seasoning, and for butter, olive oil or a plant-based alternative works too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened. This will help retain moisture and flavor!
