This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that fills your home with delicious smells. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good butter sauce? I like to pair this with steamed veggies or some fluffy rice. It’s simple and always a hit at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option. They’ll take a bit longer to cook but offer extra flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the choice here so you can control the saltiness. However, if you are looking for a dairy-free option, vegan butter works just as well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but you’ll need less—about 1 teaspoon should suffice.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth lets you manage the salt levels better. If you want a vegetarianalternative, vegetable broth works just fine.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can also add some tang.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky! To ensure your chicken stays juicy, follow these tips:
- Start with room-temperature chicken; this helps it cook more evenly.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary for a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken is perfect at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to keep the juices inside.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time!
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
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. It’s quick and simple, so perfect for any weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor and helps make a delicious crust when they cook.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Seasoning and Broth:
Next, stir in the dried Italian seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet; those add amazing flavor to the sauce!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Let this sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken up a bit.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and flavored by the garlic butter sauce.
7. Garnish & Serve:
Finally, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful garlic butter chicken!
Delicious and easy—enjoy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own mix using equal parts dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Feel free to get creative by adding other spices you enjoy, such as rosemary or parsley.
How Do I Prevent the Chicken from Sticking to the Pan?
To prevent sticking, ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the chicken. Using a good amount of olive oil also helps. Make sure not to move the chicken too soon; let it develop a nice sear before flipping or removing it from the pan.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze the garlic butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to freshen the sauce if needed.
