Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a rich, savory dish that delivers tender, juicy chicken seared to perfection and smothered in a buttery garlic sauce. This comforting and satisfying meal comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights while still feeling indulgent and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:

• It’s quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
• Made with simple ingredients commonly found in your kitchen.
• Deliciously creamy and garlicky with a hint of fresh herbs and lemon.
• Versatile enough to pair with vegetables, pasta, or rice.
• Perfect for meal prepping or serving guests.
• Offers restaurant-quality taste at home.
• Can be adapted for low-carb or keto diets.
• One-skillet meal for easy cleanup.
• Kid-friendly and approved.
• A reliable go-to for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken stock
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly dredge them in flour and shake off excess.
2. Heat olive oil and a portion of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chicken stock, scraping up any brown bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and simmer for another 2 minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Baked Garlic Butter Chicken: Use bone-in chicken and bake in the oven for a crispy skin and richer flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick.
• Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken: Add shredded mozzarella on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken: Stir in a splash of cream for a velvety sauce.
• Herbed Twist: Use rosemary, thyme, or basil for extra aroma.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and ginger to the garlic butter for an umami-rich variation.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken: Increase lemon juice and zest for a zesty profile.
• Mushroom Garlic Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites: Cut chicken into chunks and cook as quick bite-sized pieces.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken (without garnishes) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless or bone-in chicken thighs work well and add more flavor due to higher fat content.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta all complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. Note that the flavor will differ slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written due to flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or mushrooms can be cooked alongside the chicken.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

What herbs work best in this recipe?

Parsley is classic, but thyme, rosemary, or basil also pair well.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken is a satisfying, flavorful dish that balances richness with fresh, zesty notes. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, vegetables, or grains, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas.

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