This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that makes cooking fun! Juicy chicken breast is cooked in a delicious garlic and butter sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just toss everything in the pan, and you’ll have a meal that smells amazing! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, though the taste won’t be as strong. I recommend sticking with fresh when possible.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the overall saltiness. If you’re watching your sodium, you might try using a low-sodium butter or even olive oil for a different twist on flavor.
Chicken Broth: I love using chicken broth for extra richness, but vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute for a lighter meal. You can even use water with spices, but it won’t be as flavorful.
Dried Thyme: You can use Italian seasoning if you want more variety in your herb flavor. Fresh thyme is also a great option; just double the amount since it’s less concentrated.
How Can I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is super easy, but it can burn quickly if you’re not careful! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a preheated pan at medium heat. This helps to release the garlic’s flavor without overcooking.
- Add butter (or oil) first, and let it melt before tossing in the garlic.
- Keep your eye on it! Stir it constantly for about 30 seconds to a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.
Burned garlic can taste bitter, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and remove it from the heat sooner rather than later!
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to make them flavorful.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up the tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
4. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over the top to coat them well and warm them through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables. Enjoy your flavorful and easy garlic butter chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you must fully thaw the chicken first! The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, place the frozen chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Remember to pat it dry before seasoning!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No problem! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove. Just remember that the flavor of fresh garlic is more robust, so the outcome may vary slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with the seasonings. You can add more herbs like rosemary or oregano for extra flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.
