This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and tasty meal. With juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s full of flavor and perfect for any night of the week!
I love how fast this dish comes together—just a few ingredients, and it’s ready to serve! Pair it with rice or veggies for a complete dinner that everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work too!
Butter: Unsalted butter is used to control the saltiness of the dish. You can substitute with ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option, though flavor will change slightly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh is always better!
Chicken Broth: I love using homemade broth for an extra flavor boost, but store-bought works fine. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a nice brightness. If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping your chicken tender and juicy is key! Here are a few tips:
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer; 165°F is the magic number!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This helps retain moisture.
- Cooking in the skillet allows for a nice sear, which locks in juices. Remember to adjust the heat accordingly to avoid burning.
By following these steps, your garlic butter chicken will turn out deliciously juicy every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice (if using) while scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any tasty browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This will help thicken the sauce and add richness.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the delicious sauce over it, and cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm everything through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness! Serve immediately, enjoying your flavorful garlic butter chicken with your favorite sides.
Bon Appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic if I Don’t Have Any?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder is equal to 1 clove of fresh garlic. Just add it to the pan during the cooking of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture if necessary.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cook everything, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge. Reheat on low heat before serving to ensure it stays juicy and delicious!
