If you’re craving a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, this Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is going to win your heart (and your taste buds) in no time. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that’s simply heavenly. It’s a recipe that feels fancy enough for guests but is so straightforward you’ll want to make it on repeat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this dish promises to deliver big on flavor without the fuss.

Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is a breeze, and every one of them plays a crucial role in building those layers of mouthwatering taste and inviting texture. These simple staples from your kitchen come together to create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, tender and lean, perfect for soaking up all the garlic butter goodness.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the chicken.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky depth and a beautiful warm hue.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps create a perfect sear on the chicken, locking in juices.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Creates that classic rich, creamy sauce everyone loves.
6 cloves garlic, minced: The flavor powerhouse that makes this recipe unforgettable.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a subtle savory base for the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme): Elevates the dish with fragrant, garden-fresh flavor notes.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brings a pop of color and a touch of brightness at the end.

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides. This simple step is crucial because it layers in flavor before the cooking even begins, ensuring every bite is deliciously seasoned.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. This high-heat sear locks in the juices, making the chicken tender and juicy. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter is pure comfort, but make sure not to let it burn — you want it fragrant and sweet.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the dried Italian herbs into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This simmer allows the sauce to thicken slightly and marry the flavors beautifully, turning simple ingredients into something magical.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Return your chicken breasts back to the skillet and spoon some of that luscious garlic butter sauce over the top. Let them cook together for another couple of minutes so the chicken can soak up all those buttery, herby flavors. This finishing touch makes all the difference.

Step 6: Serve Your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Once everything looks perfectly glazed and irresistible, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley to add a vibrant pop of green and a fresh note that balances the richness.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can transform this dish from everyday delicious to wow-worthy. Besides freshly chopped parsley, consider a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of brightness and flavor contrast. These touches make it feel special without extra effort.

Side Dishes

This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully, while fluffy rice or buttered pasta keep the dish light and satisfying. If you want to add some color and crunch, roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli are excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts and serve them atop a bed of herbed quinoa or alongside a vibrant salad. You can also turn this dish into a cozy one-pan meal by adding sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes during the sauce-making step — they’ll soften and flavor the sauce as well. Presentation is all about what makes you smile!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe keep nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making the next meal just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

If you want to save some for longer, freeze cooked chicken portions with the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll last up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for an easy meal anytime.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, covered, so the chicken stays moist and the sauce warms evenly. Microwave works too if you’re short on time, just be careful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Always pat the chicken dry to ensure it sears nicely.

What if I Don’t Have Italian Herbs?

No worries! A simple mix of oregano, basil, and thyme works great and mimics the typical Italian herb blend. If you only have one herb, feel free to use it alone or substitute with herbs you love.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Definitely. Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan margarine or use olive oil instead. The flavor will still be rich and delicious, just slightly different in texture.

How Can I Tell When the Chicken Is Cooked Through?

Use a meat thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part and make sure there’s no pink in the center, and the juices run clear.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are even juicier and more forgiving. Adjust cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, and you’ll still get all the wonderful garlic butter flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a recipe that’s both simple and sublime, and this Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe fits the bill perfectly. From the first bite, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to create a flavorful, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious classic — it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.

Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a flavorful and quick weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and simmered in a delicious homemade garlic butter sauce infused with Italian herbs. Ready in just 30-35 minutes, it’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika

Cooking Fats

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Sauce

6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides. This adds great flavor right from the start!
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in your dried Italian herbs. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it slightly reduces. This step enhances the flavors beautifully!
Combine and Cook: Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes—this helps the chicken soak up all that deliciousness!
Serve: Once everything is blended nicely, remove from heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Easy Garlic Butter Chicken hot with rice, pasta, or steamed veggies!

Notes

You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
To thaw frozen chicken quickly, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes.
Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear and flavorful crust.
Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preference.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
Serve with your choice of sides like rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American