This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked with buttery garlic goodness, making every bite extra tasty. It’s quick to whip up, perfect for busy nights!
I love how the aroma of garlic fills the kitchen. It’s hard not to taste test as it cooks! Serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal—everyone will be going for seconds!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with thighs for extra juiciness, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic for convenience. Just be aware that it may have a milder taste compared to fresh cloves.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness. For a healthier option, you could use olive oil, which also pairs well with the garlic.
Chicken broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works perfectly too. If you’re aiming for a lower sodium option, choose a low-sodium broth or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty brightness. Alternatively, you could use white vinegar or even a splash of apple cider vinegar if lemon is not on hand.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there’s an easy way to ensure it’s done right. The key is to monitor the temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C). Here’s how to do it:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature while cooking.
- If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.
- Be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out the chicken. Cook just until done and remove from the heat.
Following these tips will help you achieve juicy, tender chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried parsley (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need just about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season each side generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will give your chicken flavor and a nice color.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Let it rest while you make the sauce.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those brown bits add flavor!), add the last tablespoon of butter. When it melts, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Stir it around a bit to infuse that garlicky goodness into the butter.
4. Add Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice while scraping the bottom of the pan to release the delicious stuck bits. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly. This makes everything more flavorful!
5. Combine and Serve:
Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet and give them a good spoonful of that amazing sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for another 2 minutes to warm up. If you’d like, sprinkle some dried Italian herbs or parsley on top for an extra touch of flavor.
6. Plate and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your garlic butter chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first! Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Can I Make This Garlic Butter Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and the sauce in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet with the sauce over low heat until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or even water mixed with a little bit of soy sauce for added flavor. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
