Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe for Flavorful Meals

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; Dried thyme and parsley to taste; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: February 10, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken

Quick and Easy Preparation: This garlic butter chicken comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep work, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter creates a luxurious sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Each bite is bursting with savory goodness that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Versatile Dish: Whether served over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables, this garlic butter chicken adapts beautifully to any side dish. You can easily customize it with herbs or spices based on your preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to special celebrations, this dish fits every occasion. Its impressive presentation coupled with its delightful taste makes it suitable for both everyday meals and festive gatherings.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced for maximum infusion.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish while providing richness.
Dried Herbs: A mix of thyme and parsley works well; feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust them according to your preference.

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep the dish balanced without overwhelming saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients on your countertop. Mince the garlic finely and chop any herbs if using fresh ones. This will streamline your cooking process.

Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. This step builds essential flavor from within.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter along with minced garlic and dried herbs. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant; be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add Broth and Return Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Then return cooked chicken breasts back into the pan allowing them to simmer gently in that flavorful sauce for another five minutes.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic dramatically enhances flavor compared to powdered versions. Always opt for fresh when possible!

Don’t Overcook Chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times as overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer if needed!

Tweak Seasonings as Desired: Feel free to adjust herbs or add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Try Different Proteins: While this recipe focuses on chicken breasts, thighs or even shrimp can be substituted successfully—just adjust cooking times accordingly!

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed Vegetables

Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken alongside a colorful medley of steamed vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, and snap peas add a crisp texture that complements the rich flavors of the chicken. Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the veggies for a refreshing twist. This combination not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also boosts its nutritional value.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Pairing Garlic Butter Chicken with creamy garlic mashed potatoes creates a comforting meal. The buttery richness of the potatoes mirrors the chicken’s flavor profile. To elevate this side, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness. This classic pairing will satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Rice Pilaf

A fragrant rice pilaf makes an excellent companion to Garlic Butter Chicken. Use long-grain rice cooked in chicken broth for added depth of flavor. Toss in some toasted almonds and raisins for sweetness and crunch. This dish absorbs the garlic butter sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.

Garden Salad

Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken with a light garden salad dressed in vinaigrette. Fresh greens like spinach or arugula provide a peppery bite that counters the richness of the chicken. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and avocado for extra nutrition and flavor. This refreshing salad balances out the meal perfectly.

FAQs

What is the best way to store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?

To store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It can last for up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave when ready to enjoy again.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Garlic Butter Chicken?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken. Thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier during cooking due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.

What herbs pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Several herbs enhance the flavor of Garlic Butter Chicken beautifully. Fresh parsley adds brightness and color, while thyme brings earthy notes that complement garlic well. Rosemary also works wonders with its aromatic profile. Feel free to experiment with these herbs based on your personal taste preferences for an even tastier dish.

Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time by marinating the chicken in garlic butter and spices several hours or even overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also cook it ahead and reheat it gently later for an easy meal option during busy weeknights.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions from casual dinners to special gatherings. Pairing it with sides like steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a garden salad enhances both flavor and presentation while balancing richness with freshness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card