This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty treat! You’ll love the juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite flavorful and comforting.
Honestly, who could resist garlic and butter? This dish is quick to make, so it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish because they cook quickly and remain tender. If you have thighs on hand, feel free to substitute—they’re juicier and can add great flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. However, you can use salted butter if it’s all you have—just adjust the added salt accordingly. I love using a mix of butter and oil for richness!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I love to add an extra clove or two for a stronger garlic taste!
Chicken Broth/White Wine: These ingredients are optional, but they really enhance the sauce. If you don’t have any on hand, a splash of water will do. Vegetable broth is another great alternative!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for tenderness and juiciness. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Start by bringing your chicken to room temperature before cooking; this helps it cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
By following these steps, you should achieve succulent, flavorful garlic butter chicken each time. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make 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
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (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 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season both sides of the chicken breasts with a good pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. This is the foundation of your dish, so don’t skip this step!
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and fully cooked—about 165°F (75°C) inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now it’s time to make the garlic butter sauce! Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once the butter melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds to a minute. Be careful not to let it burn; we want that fragrant garlic aroma!
4. Combine and Deglaze:
Next, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and any dried Italian herbs if you’re using them. Stir everything together. If you want a bit more sauce, pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Finish the Dish:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon that delicious garlic butter sauce over the top, and let them warm through for 1-2 more minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your garlic butter chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing if you’d like! Enjoy this delightful dish!
There you have it—an easy, flavorful garlic butter chicken that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative since they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or use olive oil throughout the recipe. The garlic and seasoning flavors will still shine through!
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles!
