This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is one tasty dish! It’s made with tender chicken cooked in rich garlic butter that makes your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s super quick to make!
I love how this meal pairs perfectly with rice or veggies. It’s my go-to for busy nights when I want something delicious without a fuss. Just a few simple steps and dinner’s ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use thighs. They stay juicier and add richer flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. If you’re cutting calories, you could substitute with olive oil or a light spread, but I really think butter adds the best flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here! If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but you’ll need about a teaspoon. Just remember, fresh garlic brings a real punch of flavor.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth enhances the dish’s taste. Vegetable broth works just as well if you are looking for a vegetarian option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
The secret to juicy chicken breasts is cooking them over medium heat and not overcrowding the pan. Here’s how you can ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Season the chicken generously before cooking. This adds flavor right from the start.
- Melt butter in the skillet and allow it to get hot before adding the chicken. This creates a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken only until it’s golden brown on the sides and no longer pink inside (165°F internal temperature). This usually takes 5-7 minutes per side.
- Let the chicken rest on a plate for a couple of minutes before slicing or serving. This helps retain its juices!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Garlic Butter Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Don’t be shy; it helps boost the flavor!
2. Heat the Butter:
Grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling it around the pan to coat it evenly.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (you want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once it melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s nicely fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds amazing flavor. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes so it can reduce slightly.
6. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Allow it to cook together for another 2 minutes so the chicken absorbs a bit more of that tasty sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just ensure they are cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. The flavor might change slightly, but you’ll still have a delicious dish!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the skillet just after cooking the garlic. Sauté them until tender before adding the chicken back in for a complete meal.
