This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is so juicy and packed with flavor! The simple garlic butter sauce makes the chicken deliciously irresistible. You won’t believe how quick and easy it is!
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need something tasty without a lot of fuss. Serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead. They tend to be juicier and add great flavor, too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely taste. You can use jarred minced garlic in a pinch, though fresh is always best. If you’re not a garlic lover, consider using shallots for a milder flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness. You could swap in ghee for a dairy-free version, or use olive oil instead for a lighter feel.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley are great, but feel free to use fresh herbs. If you have rosemary or basil on hand, that could bring a nice twist to the flavor.
Chicken Broth: The broth adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have any, feel free to use water. Also, vegetable broth works great as a substitute!
How Do You Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the chicken to the perfect doneness is key for juicy results. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear. This helps lock in moisture.
- Don’t crowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary. This way, the chicken brown nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices.
Following these steps will make your garlic butter chicken tender and delicious!
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
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken will take about 25 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and then about 15 minutes cooking it in the skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. This adds delicious flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown. Then, flip the chicken and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Then, stir in the thyme and parsley.
4. Add Flavor with Broth:
If you’re using chicken broth, pour it into the skillet to deglaze the pan. Scrape any tasty bits off the bottom and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
5. Finish with Lemon:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the sauce and stir everything together. This adds a bright, fresh flavor!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional minute or two to warm them up again and ensure they’re well covered in that flavorful sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it immediately, and enjoy the deliciousness of your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a couple of hours.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Thyme or Parsley?
No worries! If you don’t have thyme or parsley, you can substitute with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs will add great flavor, but dried herbs work just fine too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can cook the chicken and prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Just store everything separately, and reheat the chicken in the sauce before serving for the best flavor and texture.
