Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

If you crave something comforting yet exciting on a weeknight, Garlic Butter Chicken is the dish you’ve been searching for. Imagine juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts bathed in a pool of wine-kissed garlic butter sauce, all ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for the family or just need a showstopping meal with minimal fuss, this recipe ticks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and pure satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this Garlic Butter Chicken is that every ingredient has an important role to play—from the savory chicken and hearty olive oil to the bright pop of parsley at the end. These are everyday kitchen staples that come together in a totally irresistible way.

• Olive oil: Adds a hint of fruitiness and ensures the chicken breasts develop that beautiful golden sear.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: When pounded to an even thickness, they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.
• 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning: An easy shortcut for layering huge flavor without a long list of spices.
• Kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors—taste as you go for the perfect balance.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds bright, peppery notes that play well with all the other flavors.
• White wine or chicken broth: Deglazes your pan, lifts those amazing browned bits, and forms the backbone of your sauce.
• Unsalted butter: The secret to a glossy, decadent sauce that carries the garlic’s flavor in every bite.
• Finely minced garlic: The star of the show! Use fresh garlic for a fragrant, punchy sauce.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds freshness and a burst of green color.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pounded chicken breasts in the pan, and season them generously with your chosen seasoning blend, plus salt and pepper. The magic here is patience—don’t touch or move the chicken while it’s searing! This ensures a golden, flavorful crust forms underneath.

Step 2: Flip and Finish Cooking

Once the first side is perfectly golden (about 5 minutes), carefully flip the chicken over. Let the second side cook through completely, another 5 minutes or so, resisting the urge to poke or prod. This keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

Use a slotted spatula to transfer the cooked chicken onto a plate. Let it rest for a bit—this helps redistribute the juices and keeps every bite moist. Don’t worry, the chicken won’t get cold as you build the sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Now comes the fun part! Quickly and carefully pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze your hot skillet. The liquid will bubble vigorously and help lift all the caramelized bits from the bottom—this is packed with flavor for your Garlic Butter Chicken sauce.

Step 5: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

Add that glorious butter to the skillet and stir until it’s fully melted. Then add in your minced garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute, just until fragrant. This is when your kitchen starts to smell absolutely amazing and the anticipation builds!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

With the heat turned off, return the chicken breasts and their juices to the pan. Flip the chicken around in the buttery, garlicky sauce, spooning it over the top so every piece gets lovingly coated. Top with fresh parsley and serve your Garlic Butter Chicken immediately—trust me, dinner doesn’t get better than this!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley works wonders, adding a splash of color and herbal brightness against the rich garlic butter. For a little extra flair, try a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving—both wake up all the flavors in Garlic Butter Chicken beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is made for soaking up that luscious sauce! Classic choices like fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a pile of buttered noodles are unbeatable. If you want to keep things lighter, serve Garlic Butter Chicken over steamed veggies or alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the chicken and nestling it onto toasted sourdough for a decadent open-faced sandwich. Or toss thin strips with pasta and a handful of sautéed spinach for a quick weeknight spin. However you present it, the magical garlic butter sauce makes every bite unforgettable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen a little overnight, making for a killer office lunch or quick meal prep option.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, let the cooked chicken cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze (with a bit of extra sauce if possible) for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, spooning the sauce over as it warms through. If you’re short on time, a covered microwave-safe dish will do the trick—just add a splash of stock and heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay even juicier and bring extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time if your pieces are particularly thick—they might need a few extra minutes in the pan.

What can I substitute for the white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is an excellent stand-in and still makes a gorgeous sauce. You could even add a squeeze of lemon juice for a little extra brightness.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay moist. If you skip this step, keep an eye on the thinnest and thickest parts, and adjust cooking time as needed so nothing overcooks.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The safest way is to check with an instant-read thermometer—look for 165°F at the thickest part of the breast. The juices should also run clear, and the meat will feel firm to the touch.

Can I double the butter for extra sauce?

Yes, and I highly recommend it if you’re a sauce lover! Double the butter (and maybe a splash more wine or broth), and you’ll have plenty for dipping and drizzling over sides—pure Garlic Butter Chicken heaven.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Chicken, it will become one of your go-to dinners. The combination of juicy chicken and that fragrant, savory sauce feels like pure comfort food, yet it’s quick enough for any busy night. Give it a try and see just how easy amazing flavor can be!

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