This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce make for a delicious meal in no time. It’s simple and oh-so-good!
I love how it fills the kitchen with that amazing garlic smell. Plus, you can enjoy it with rice or veggies. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you prefer chicken thighs, they work well too and add a bit more flavor and moisture.
Butter: While unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels, you can use salted butter in a pinch. Just remember to reduce the added salt in the seasoning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if you’re out. Just 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be a good substitute.
Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work. For a richer flavor, use low-sodium broth to avoid making the dish too salty.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
To ensure your chicken is juicy and tender, start by really drying it with paper towels. This helps it sear better. Sear the first side without moving it to develop a nice golden color, taking about 5-7 minutes. Check its doneness by ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking!
- Always cook on medium-high heat for the first side.
- If you have thick chicken breasts, consider butterflying them to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices.
Enjoy making your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken! It’s a family favorite for a reason!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color and flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, including 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious option for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the chicken get a nice golden brown color when cooked. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika (if you choose to use it).
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter melts and the mixture is hot and bubbling.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Let them cook without moving them for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown on one side. Then, flip the chicken over and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are cooked through (you can check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F / 74°C). Once cooked, 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 pan. Once it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens up a bit.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over them. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow it to absorb all those delicious flavors. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken hot with your favorite side dishes, like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner! 😊
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add even more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is an excellent alternative. You can also use water, but for enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or some herbs to the water for more depth.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat or the microwave until thoroughly warmed, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
