This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken cooked in a lovely garlic butter sauce makes for a yummy dinner that everyone will enjoy.
I love how quick this recipe is. Whip it up after a long day, and soon you’ll be savoring that buttery goodness. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something special!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and quick to cook. You could use thighs for more moisture or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could substitute half of the butter with olive oil, though it might change the rich flavor a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work. Use about 1 teaspoon in place of each clove, but add it to the sauce later so it doesn’t burn.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is a good substitute if you’re keeping it vegetarian. Water can suffice too, though it won’t be as flavorful.
Lemon Juice: Optional but recommended for a fresh zing! If you don’t have fresh lemons, store-bought lemon juice works, or even a splash of vinegar.
How Do You Avoid Burning Garlic When Sautéing?
Burning garlic can lead to a bitter taste, so it’s important to watch the heat and timing. Sautéing garlic should be done at medium heat, and the moment it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, remove it from the pan.
- Start with heating the oil and butter, then add the chicken.
- After cooking the chicken, lower the heat before adding garlic.
- Stir it often. Once you smell that delicious garlic aroma, it’s time to add the broth.
Using these tips will help ensure your garlic turns perfectly golden without any bitterness. Enjoy the rich flavors of your garlic butter sauce!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes to make this delicious dish. This includes 10 minutes of preparation and about 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs on both sides. This adds a lot of flavor right from the start!
2. Heat the Oil and Butter:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Make sure the butter melts and starts to bubble without burning.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and the lemon juice (if using). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits add great flavor to the sauce!
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. This will help to concentrate the flavors.
7. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your garlic butter chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color and freshness. Serve it right away, and enjoy it over rice, pasta, or with some steamed vegetables!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and will provide even more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Fat?
If you’re looking to reduce fat, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, or use a light spread instead. Additionally, using skinless chicken breasts helps keep the dish lean.
What if I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth, or even water mixed with a little bit of soy sauce or seasoning for added flavor.
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
