There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle of chicken cooking in a hot skillet, especially when it’s enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Having stumbled upon this Garlic Butter Chicken recipe during a busy weeknight, I was amazed at how effortlessly it transformed my mundane dinner plans into a family favorite in just 15 minutes. The rich aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen, tantalizing everyone and making it hard to resist a taste right out of the pan!
This dish is perfect for anyone looking to escape the fast-food rut, delivering restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. With succulent chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and a silky sauce that clings to every bite, this recipe combines simplicity with indulgence. It’s quick enough for those hectic nights when time is tight, yet impressive enough to please everyone around the table. Grab those few ingredients and get ready to elevate your weeknight meals—you’ll never want to go back to takeout again!
Why is Garlic Butter Chicken a must-try?
Simplicity made delicious: This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, allowing you to whip up a gourmet dinner on any busy night.
Family favorite: The rich, buttery garlic sauce will have everyone asking for seconds, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Quick cooking: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the long wait.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting chicken thighs for extra flavor. For more quick meals, check out our easy weeknight recipes!
One-pan ease: Cooking everything in one skillet not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze, letting you enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Olive Oil – Aids in cooking and browning the chicken for that delicious sear.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein; tenderized for even cooking and juicy results.
• 21 Salute Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning – Enhances flavor; alternatively, you can use any mixed herbs you have on hand.
• Kosher Salt – Balances flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth; feel free to tweak the amount to suit your palate.
For the Sauce
• White Wine or Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing; white wine adds a richer flavor, but broth is a non-alcoholic substitute.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates the rich, velvety sauce; you can add more for an even more indulgent experience.
• Garlic (finely minced) – Provides that iconic garlic flavor; fresh is best, but jarred can work in a pinch.
• Fresh Parsley – Optional garnish for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
With just these simple ingredients, you can create an unforgettable Garlic Butter Chicken that will leave everyone at your table wanting more!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
-
Prepare Chicken: Pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ¾ inch, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.
-
Sear Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, seasoning them with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes without moving them to achieve a beautiful golden brown crust.
-
Flip Chicken: After 5 minutes, check for that perfect golden color. Gently flip the chicken over and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
-
Deglaze Skillet: Carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) while scraping up any delicious browned bits left behind. This adds great flavor to your dish!
-
Make Sauce: Add unsalted butter to the hot skillet, allowing it to melt completely. Once melted, stir until combined, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
-
Combine: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly in the rich garlic butter sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice or a crisp salad to complement your garlic butter chicken!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
Create the perfect dining experience by complementing the rich flavors of this succulent dish with delicious sides and accompaniments.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness perfectly balances the garlic sauce, providing a comforting and satisfying combination.
- Steamed Broccoli: A crisp and vibrant addition, this vegetable adds freshness while soaking up the garlic butter essence. Plus, it’s a colorful contrast!
- Garlic Butter Rice: Infusing rice with a hint of garlic and butter ties together the meal wonderfully, ensuring every bite is deliciously enhanced.
- Crisp Garden Salad: The freshness of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings a refreshing crunch, making it an ideal light counterpoint to the rich chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of asparagus complements the chicken beautifully while offering a delightful charred finish. It’s the perfect way to elevate your dinner!
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and is an excellent vehicle for the savory garlic sauce. Plus, it’s gluten-free!
- Garlic Bread: For those who can’t get enough garlic, a side of crispy garlic bread is indulgent and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine, especially Sauvignon Blanc, pairs splendidly. Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, elevating the meal into a delightful experience.
- Lemon Sorbet: To round off the meal with something refreshing, serve lemon sorbet. Its bright citrus flavor cleanses the palate beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their weeknight dinners! You can season and pound the chicken breasts up to 24 hours before cooking, covering them tightly in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture and flavor. The garlic butter sauce can also be prepared and refrigerated separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sauce over medium heat, cook the chicken in a skillet until golden, and toss in the warm garlic butter sauce for that decadent flavor. This approach not only saves time but ensures that your meal is just as delicious and satisfying as if it were made fresh!
Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Garlic Butter Chicken! Here are some delightful twists to make this dish your own.
-
Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture, perfect for those cozy family dinners.
-
Veggie Boost: Add spinach or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking for a colorful and nutritious upgrade that complements the sauce beautifully.
-
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish or add zest while cooking for a bright, citrusy finish that lifts the flavors.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your garlic butter sauce a delightful kick, perfect for the heat lovers!
-
Herbed Variation: Experiment with flavored butter, such as garlic herb butter, to infuse extra dimensions of flavor into the sauce that your taste buds will adore.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a luxuriously creamy sauce, draping the chicken in smooth indulgence.
-
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
-
Alternative Oil: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a subtle sweetness that pairs interestingly with garlic and butter, especially appealing in tropical-inspired variations.
With these variations, your Garlic Butter Chicken can effortlessly adapt to different tastes and preferences while remaining the comforting favorite you cherish!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its juicy texture.
Freezer: Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken for up to 4 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Thawing: To thaw, move the chicken from the freezer to the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, you can place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce moist. Enjoy your flavorful chicken just like the day you made it!
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken
-
Even Thickness: Always pound the chicken to an even thickness for quicker and uniform cooking, preventing dry spots.
-
Searing Technique: Let the chicken sear untouched for that golden crust; moving it too soon can prevent browning and enhance flavor.
-
Deglazing Flavors: When deglazing, use a dry white wine for depth; ensure it’s a variety you enjoy drinking to maintain quality in the dish.
-
Chicken Thighs Variation: If opting for chicken thighs, adjust cooking time as they may take longer to cook through without affecting juiciness.
-
Creative Serving: Pair Garlic Butter Chicken with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal that elevates the flavors.
Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pale pink and firm to the touch. Avoid chicken with dark spots or an off smell. If possible, purchase organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?
Very! Place the leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheating can be done in a skillet over low heat to keep it nice and juicy.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken for later?
Yes, you can! Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
If your chicken turns out dry, it often means it was cooked too long or at too high of a temperature. Remember to pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking. If you find yourself in this situation, you can serve it with extra sauce on the side, or even try shredding it and mixing it into a salad or sandwich to add moisture back in.
Is this Garlic Butter Chicken recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to check that your seasoning blend does not contain any gluten, as some brands may add fillers. Using chicken broth for deglazing can also be a gluten-free option, so be sure to confirm it if you’re sensitive to gluten.
Can I make this recipe with skin-on chicken?
Certainly! If you prefer skin-on chicken, it may require a bit more cooking time, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin will add extra flavor and texture, so enjoy that crispy goodness!
Garlic Butter Chicken: A Quick Family Favorite Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ¾ inch, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, seasoning them with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes without moving them to achieve a beautiful golden brown crust.
- After 5 minutes, check for that perfect golden color. Gently flip the chicken over and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) while scraping up any delicious browned bits left behind.
- Add unsalted butter to the hot skillet, allowing it to melt completely. Once melted, stir until combined, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly in the rich garlic butter sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.