Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
If you are searching for a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with the irresistible richness of butter and the pungent warmth of garlic, this Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together simple, affordable ingredients that transform into a meal bursting with flavor and comfort. The creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly coats each chicken breast, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe promises a satisfying and savory experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of everyday ingredients is all it takes to create this delectable dish. Each component plays a key role, from the seasoning that adds a hint of smoky and herbal depth to the lemon juice that brightens the sauce with fresh acidity.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized cuts for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and seasons the chicken evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a pleasant mild heat and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky layer that complements the garlic.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden crust without burning.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Key for the luscious sauce and that irresistible richness.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the dish that infuses intense aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lifts the flavors with a zingy freshness.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil for a delicious herbal note.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Bright green garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Lemon wedges (optional): For an extra burst of citrus at the table.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry, then evenly season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This combination creates a flavorful foundation that ensures the chicken has a beautiful seasoning crust once cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken breasts carefully in the pan, cooking without moving them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. This step is critical for developing that wonderful golden-brown exterior and sealing in the juices.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside, tenting with foil to keep warm. Lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Garlic is delicate, and this step infuses the base of your sauce with its signature aroma.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze the pan, stirring to lift those tasty browned bits from the bottom. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the dried Italian seasoning until the sauce turns silky smooth. The butter enriches the sauce, giving it a creamy texture without any cream, while the herbs add an earthy, savory note.
Step 6: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over them. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes; this step lets the flavors meld and the chicken absorb some of that garlicky goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if you like an extra citrus kick. Now, it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds bright, herbal notes that balance the richest parts of this Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe. Lemon wedges invite that vibrant tang that everyone’s going to appreciate with each bite.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the luscious sauce. Try creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even garlic roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A crisp green salad or sautéed greens provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, slice the chicken and fan it out on a platter, drizzling any leftover sauce over top. Garnish with additional herbs or edible flowers for flair. Arrange with colorful roasted veggies for an eye-catching, restaurant-quality presentation that anyone would love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce and chicken together to retain its moist texture.
Freezing
This chicken freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and provide a slightly richer flavor. Adjust cooking time since thighs usually take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth does not contain any gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I add vegetables to cook with the chicken?
Certainly! Adding mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet during the sauce stage can make this a one-pan meal full of extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a little longer to reduce it more or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a party?
You can cook the chicken fully and prepare the sauce a day ahead, then gently reheat and combine before serving. This keeps the cooking stress low while impressing your guests.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is like giving your taste buds a warm hug. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Once you make it, it could easily become one of your favorite go-to meals to share with family and friends. So why wait? Grab those ingredients and bring this delicious comfort food to your table tonight.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken breasts cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce. Enhanced with lemon juice and Italian seasoning, this skillet-cooked dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika evenly to ensure a flavorful base.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat to medium, then add 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, reducing it slightly and intensifying the flavor.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the dried Italian seasoning, mixing until the sauce turns smooth and glossy.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately, offering lemon wedges on the side if desired for a bright, zesty finish.
Notes
- For best results, use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute dried Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary if preferred.
- If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream after adding the butter and seasoning.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to make the most of the flavorful sauce.
- Ensure the garlic is not overcooked to prevent bitterness in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
