This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is packed with flavor and super simple to make! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Honestly, who can resist buttery garlic goodness? I always make extra so I can soak up the sauce with some bread! Yummy! 👌
I love how quick this meal is to prep, making it perfect for busy nights. Just skillet-cook the chicken and let that garlic butter work its magic—dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease, but chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lower calorie option, try using turkey cutlets instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too! Start with about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for a quicker option.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness. You can also use ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Chicken Broth: This is optional but adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have any, water or white wine can be great substitutes. Just lower the quantity if you want a thicker sauce!
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Evenly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky sometimes! Here are my steps to help you have great results:
- Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the chicken dry to get a nice golden sear, which adds flavor.
- Don’t crowd the skillet. If necessary, cook in batches to allow the chicken to brown properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
By following these tips, your chicken will be juicy and flavorful every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice crispy exterior. Then, generously season both sides with salt and black pepper, ensuring even flavor throughout.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and dried Italian herbs. Sauté this mixture for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic brown.
4. Deglaze the Skillet:
If you’d like a sauce, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors and slightly reduce.
5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything heat together for another 1-2 minutes, soaking in all those wonderful flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges for added zest if you like, and enjoy your EASY Garlic Butter Chicken with rice, pasta, or steamed veggies!
Enjoy your delicious and easy garlic butter chicken!
FAQ: Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute as they are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. The flavor will still be delicious without the dairy!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, feel free to use vegetable broth or even water. If you want to add extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of additional herbs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
