This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s super simple to make. Tender chicken is bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that has everyone coming back for seconds!
I love how quick it is to whip up this meal; just 30 minutes and you’re ready to eat! Pair it with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a dinner that feels fancy but is really easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick cooking. If you don’t have them, chicken thighs can also work well, just adjust the cooking time since they may take a bit longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for flavor control, but if you only have salted butter, that’s okay! Just be mindful when adding extra salt later. I sometimes mix in a little ghee for added richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that punchy flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder in a pinch, but use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove needed, as the flavor is more concentrated.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds nice depth. If you don’t have it, you can make your own with a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh herbs also work if you prefer—they typically have a more vibrant flavor!
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness. If you don’t have any, water with a splash of soy sauce can be a good substitute!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
To get juicy chicken, pat the breasts dry before seasoning—this helps the spices stick and enhances browning. Then, use medium-high heat in your skillet to achieve a good sear without overcooking. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C) for perfect results!
- Start cooking when the skillet is hot but not smoking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; it can lower the temperature and prevent browning. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before slicing. This locks in the juices!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Time Needed:
This dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and then about 20 minutes cooking it to perfection. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to cover the chicken well to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 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:
Next, reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn! You want that delicious garlic flavor.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits hold a lot of flavor! Let the broth simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Allow them to cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and get coated in the delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve the chicken hot, and enjoy your tasty garlic butter chicken!
This meal pairs great with rice, pasta, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes! Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. It’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or by using the defrost setting on your microwave. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water mixed with a splash of soy sauce for a similar flavor. Keep in mind that vegetable broth may change the taste slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat gently in a skillet over low heat before serving to ensure it stays juicy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Enjoy!
