Garlic Butter Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• I can make it in only 20 minutes from start to finish.
• The garlic butter sauce is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare.
• I use simple ingredients that are often already in my kitchen.
• The recipe pairs well with vegetables, rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
• It creates juicy, tender chicken with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
• 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, optional for garnish

Directions

1. I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. I season the chicken breasts evenly with the poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. I place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes without moving it. This allows a beautiful golden crust to develop.
4. I flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, or until fully cooked through. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, I may cook them for 6 to 7 minutes per side.
5. I remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.
6. Carefully, I pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
7. I add the butter and stir continuously until it melts completely, about 1 minute.
8. I add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
9. I turn off the heat and return the chicken to the skillet.
10. I coat the chicken in the garlic butter sauce and spoon extra sauce over the top before serving.
11. If desired, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• I add sliced mushrooms to the skillet for extra flavor and texture.
• I stir in a splash of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy finish.
• I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer option.
• I sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for added savoriness.
• I add a pinch of red pepper flakes when I want a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, I freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, I warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. I can also microwave individual portions in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Why should I pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness?

I pound the chicken so it cooks evenly and stays tender throughout without drying out.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, I often substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use white wine?

No, I can use chicken broth instead. It still creates a flavorful sauce while keeping the recipe alcohol-free.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple recipe that delivers impressive flavor with minimal ingredients and effort. I love how the golden seared chicken combines with the rich garlic butter sauce to create a comforting and versatile meal. Whether I’m preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this recipe always turns out delicious and satisfying.

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