This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is juicy and full of flavor! Made with chicken breasts, garlic, and melted butter, it’s simple and quick to prepare for dinner.
You won’t believe how easy this is! I love serving it with rice to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a superstar chef! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute which can achieve a similar richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but start with a smaller amount, as it’s more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce, but water works too if you’re short on broth. For a stronger taste, consider using vegetable broth.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, start by ensuring it’s at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Another key is not to overcrowd the pan when searing; doing so traps steam, which can dry out the chicken.
- Pat the chicken dry to help it brown nicely.
- Cook it on medium-high heat for a good sear, making sure not to flip it too soon; wait for that golden crust!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. When it hits 165°F (74°C), you know it’s perfectly cooked!
Feel free to adjust these tips to match your cooking style, and enjoy making this delicious garlic butter chicken!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for sauce)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and 15 minutes cooking this dish. Overall, it takes about 25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner any evening of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly. This is the perfect time to add the chicken!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely golden color and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Carefully 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 unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute or until it becomes incredibly fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
5. Adding Herbs and Broth:
Stir in the dried Italian herbs and the chicken broth if you’re using it. Allow this to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors blend nicely.
6. Bring Back the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and use a spoon to drizzle the garlic butter sauce over them. Let them soak up some flavor for another minute.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright finish. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the chicken for extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful and simple garlic butter chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The safest way is to defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick thaw method by placing the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Ensure it’s patted dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or water as a substitute. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine or a little soy sauce to enhance the richness of the garlic butter sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it’s heated through but not overcooked.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Just sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken, then follow the remaining steps to create a flavorful and colorful one-pan meal!
