Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Looking for a dinner that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor? This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for any night of the week. With juicy, tender chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a must-try for garlic lovers. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted veggies, and you’ve got a meal that will please the whole family.

this Recipe

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What Is "Garlic Butter Chicken"?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The chicken is usually seasoned with herbs and spices, then pan-fried until golden brown. Once the chicken is cooked, it’s coated in a garlic-infused butter sauce that adds richness and depth of flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken

To make this easy and delicious Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs (4 medium, boneless, skinless) – Provides the protein base for the dish.
2. Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – The star of the recipe, adding tons of flavor.
3. Butter (4 tablespoons) – Creates the rich, flavorful sauce.
4. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For searing the chicken to a golden-brown finish.
5. Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds moisture and depth to the garlic butter sauce.
6. Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons) – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
7. Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – A blend of herbs to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
8. Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor to the chicken.
9. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the chicken.
10. Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – For garnish and a pop of color.

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Substitutions and Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some great substitution and variation options:

1. Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts – For juicier chicken, substitute boneless, skinless thighs for breasts.
2. Add Vegetables – Include veggies like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus in the skillet for a one-pan meal.
3. Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter sauce for a little heat.
4. Use Ghee or Clarified Butter – For a slightly healthier twist, use ghee instead of regular butter.
5. Low-Carb Option – Serve the garlic butter chicken over cauliflower rice or with a side of roasted vegetables.
6. Herb Substitutes – If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and basil.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese – Stir in some grated Parmesan for a cheesy, creamy garlic butter sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into how to make this Garlic Butter Chicken from start to finish. This recipe serves 4 and can be completed in about 30 minutes.

Step 1: Season the Chicken

• Start by patting the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help them brown nicely.
• Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet.
• Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until it’s golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
• Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
• Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet (these add tons of flavor).
• Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in the Sauce

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top.
• Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.

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How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick guide to making this delicious dish:

1. Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce by sautéing garlic, then adding chicken broth and lemon juice.
4. Coat the chicken in the garlic butter sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcrowding the Pan – If you crowd the chicken in the skillet, it won’t brown properly. Cook in batches if needed to give the chicken room to sear.
2. Burning the Garlic – Garlic burns quickly, so make sure to cook it on medium heat and stir frequently. If the heat is too high, it can turn bitter.
3. Not Letting the Sauce Reduce – Give the sauce time to reduce slightly, as this concentrates the flavors and thickens the sauce.
4. Overcooking the Chicken – Avoid dry chicken by cooking just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then remove it from the skillet.
5. Skipping the Resting Time – Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, flavorful chicken.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate even a simple dish like Garlic Butter Chicken. Here are a few tips for serving it beautifully:

1. Serve Over Rice or Pasta – Garlic butter sauce is perfect for spooning over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, allowing the carbs to soak up all the delicious sauce.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even basil adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
3. Add Lemon Wedges – Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
4. Serve in the Skillet – For a rustic presentation, serve the chicken straight from the skillet at the table.

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How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

This Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Over Rice or Cauliflower Rice – The garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with a fluffy bed of rice.
• With Pasta – Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles for a delicious pasta dish.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are a great side to complement the rich garlic butter sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy side.
• Salad – A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken

Looking to impress your guests? Here are a few creative ways to present Garlic Butter Chicken:

1. Serve on a Platter – Arrange the chicken on a large platter, spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Individual Cast-Iron Skillets – Serve the chicken in individual cast-iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
3. Garnish with Lemon Slices – Place thin slices of lemon or lemon wedges around the chicken to brighten up the presentation.
4. Drizzle with Extra Sauce – Just before serving, drizzle some extra garlic butter sauce over the top of the chicken and sides for extra flavor.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to make sure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Fresh Garlic – For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
2. Double the Sauce – If you love sauce, feel free to double the amount of garlic butter sauce. It’s great for drizzling over rice or pasta.
3. Make Ahead – You can prep the chicken and garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
4. Reheat Gently – When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken tender.

Q: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and garlic butter sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a perfect option for a quick and satisfying meal. With tender chicken, a rich garlic butter sauce, and bright pops of lemon, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies, this recipe offers endless possibilities for delicious meals. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of garlic, butter, and perfectly cooked chicken tonight!

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