If you're looking for a mouthwatering dinner that's easy to make but full of flavor, you're in the right place! This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or even a special occasion. Imagine juicy chicken breasts bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce—irresistible, right? Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this delightful dish, including tips, variations, and even common mistakes to avoid!
What is Garlic Butter Chicken?
Garlic Butter Chicken is a savory dish that combines the rich, creamy flavor of butter with the pungent kick of garlic. Chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks are seared to golden perfection and then smothered in a garlic-infused butter sauce. The result is a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal that pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (you can also use salted butter, but reduce the additional salt)
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better for garlic lovers!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (adds a smoky flavor and enhances the color)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine, for added depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is the star of the dish, and these ingredients will make it unforgettable:
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted is preferred so you can control the salt levels)
- 5-6 cloves garlic, finely minced (yes, double the garlic!)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or use white wine for a more gourmet feel)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are naturally juicier than breasts and bring a richer flavor.
- Butter Substitutes: You can use ghee or margarine if you're avoiding dairy. However, nothing beats the rich taste of real butter!
- Garlic Powder: While fresh garlic is ideal, you can substitute garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. This adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
- Herbs: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, feel free to mix it up with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even basil.
- Lemon Zest: For a brighter, citrusy note, grate a bit of lemon zest into the butter sauce.
- Wine Substitute: If you’re avoiding alcohol, use chicken broth in place of wine.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now let’s get into the actual cooking. This is a step-by-step guide to help you cook Garlic Butter Chicken perfectly every time.
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because a dry surface helps the chicken to sear properly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This oil helps prevent the butter from burning when you add it later.
- Sear the Chicken: Once the pan is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through just yet; we’ll finish them in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, add the butter and let it melt. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze it and incorporate all the flavorful bits. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return Chicken to Pan: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook through for another 6-8 minutes. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) before removing the chicken.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Sear the chicken: Ensures a golden crust.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Adds rich flavor.
- Finish cooking the chicken in the sauce: Keeps it juicy and tender.
- Garnish with herbs: Enhances both flavor and presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the sear: A good sear locks in moisture and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, and burnt garlic can make the dish taste bitter. Cook it only until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
- Using too much heat: High heat can cause the butter to burn. Keep the heat medium-low when making the sauce.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F but no more.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To take your Garlic Butter Chicken to the next level, it’s all about how you serve and present it!
- Serve with sides that complement: Creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a light salad are all great choices.
- Sauce on the side: Reserve some of the garlic butter sauce to drizzle over the chicken at the table. It makes for a more luxurious dining experience.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a lemon wedge on the side can brighten the plate visually.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with many side dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
- Rice or Quinoa: A healthier option to balance the richness of the butter.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are all fantastic options.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken
Here are a few tips for making this dish look as good as it tastes:
- Plate the chicken atop a bed of mashed potatoes or rice, allowing the garlic butter sauce to drizzle down into the sides.
- Garnish with extra parsley or even a slice of lemon on the side.
- Serve family-style: Place the skillet on the table for a rustic, cozy presentation.
Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe Tips
- Prep in advance: Mince the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time to make cooking smoother.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Deglaze the pan properly: Scraping up the browned bits from the pan adds depth to the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through, but the flavor will be amazing.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the garlic butter chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, and reheat gently in a pan with a bit of extra butter to keep it moist.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: You can substitute ghee or a dairy-free margarine for butter. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze it, though the sauce may separate slightly when reheated. Just stir well during reheating to bring the sauce back together.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken is an easy yet indulgent meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. From the crispy seared chicken to the buttery garlic sauce, every bite is a delicious blend of rich flavors. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try out different variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy! Make sure to follow the tips and avoid common mistakes for the best results. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken today!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and delicious dish, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. Perfectly balanced, this dish pairs well with vegetables or pasta.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook chicken in the skillet for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over it.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle red pepper flakes.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 450mg
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