This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and tasty dish that features juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s super simple to whip up for dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep the dish light and tender. You can use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, as they tend to be juicier.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon for each clove). However, nothing beats the fresh flavor!
Italian Seasoning: This provides a nice herby touch, but feel free to mix your own. Basil, oregano, and thyme work wonderfully together if you want fresh herbs.
Butter: Unsalted is best since you control the salt level. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with more olive oil or even a plant-based butter.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Cooking chicken to a juicy perfection is all about temperature and timing. Start by evenly seasoning the breasts to enhance flavor. When cooking in the skillet:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the heat and causes steaming instead of searing.
- Use medium-high heat initially for a nice golden crust, then lower it when adding the sauce to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Using a meat thermometer helps; aim for 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy chicken!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dish takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s a quick meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for flavorful chicken, so don’t be shy!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. To check doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Seasoning and Broth:
Next, stir in the dried Italian seasoning and chicken broth (or white wine). Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan, loosening any delicious browned bits stuck to it. This adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Finish the Sauce:
Now, add the fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it slightly reduces and thickens up a bit.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over them, making sure they are well-coated. Allow them to cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the chicken.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is hot and bubbly, turn off the heat. Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it alongside rice, veggies, or pasta to enjoy the full flavor of the garlic butter sauce!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for a richer flavor, and they tend to stay juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs might take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe with Dairy-Free Ingredients?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free butter substitute to keep the dish dairy-free. Additionally, substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth will work perfectly if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to help retain moisture, or microwave it gently.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dish?
This garlic butter chicken is fantastic served over rice or pasta to soak up the sauce. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a lighter meal!