This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s quick to make! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it super flavorful and comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for variety, chicken thighs work well too – they’ll be juicier! For a lower-calorie option, consider using turkey cutlets.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan butter or olive oil instead. I sometimes mix in a bit of ghee for an extra flavor boost!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you only have garlic powder, you can use 1 teaspoon instead. However, fresh is always my go-to for the aroma and taste. If you’re not a fan of strong garlic flavor, reduce the amount to taste.
Italian Seasoning: This is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. If you don’t have it on hand, feel free to use individual dried herbs. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat sometimes!
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken properly can be a bit tricky, but here are some simple tips to keep your chicken juicy:
- Don’t Overcook: Chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
- Even Thickness: If your chicken breasts are uneven, pound them to a consistent thickness for even cooking.
Follow these tips, and you’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 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 fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor as they cook.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown on both sides and cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted, add in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned to avoid a bitter taste.
4. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
Now, stir in the Italian seasoning and chicken broth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and allow it to reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. This helps concentrate the flavors!
5. Finish the Sauce:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon juice to the sauce. Stir everything until the butter has melted and the sauce is nicely combined.
6. Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over each piece and cook for another 2-3 minutes to rewarm the chicken and let the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve the chicken warm. It’s fantastic with rice or a fresh side salad! Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier, more tender texture due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time a bit, as thighs may take a few minutes longer than breasts to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use any other cooking oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Each will work well and still let the flavors shine through!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
