Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken: Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Dish

Looking for a quick and delicious meal? This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is the perfect choice! Combining tender chicken with a rich, savory garlic butter sauce, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this article, you’ll discover how to make this mouthwatering dish using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. The best part? You can have it ready to serve in less than 30 minutes! Whether you pair it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, this Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Get ready to enjoy the incredible flavors of garlic and butter, perfectly blended with juicy chicken breasts. Let’s explore why this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, even beginners can whip up this delectable dish effortlessly.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken creates a taste sensation. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs or spices.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it a go-to option for meal prep. Reheat and enjoy whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: The rich and creamy garlic butter flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed hit at family dinners or gatherings.

Ready to transform everyday ingredients into something extraordinary? This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Don’t wait—give it a try today!

Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe: Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions

This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is as simple as it is delicious! Here’s everything you’ll need and how to bring it all together.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 pieces, or adjust based on the number of servings you need.
• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm, fresh cloves for the best flavor; minced or sliced works perfectly.
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for the rich, buttery sauce. Using unsalted butter helps you control the dish’s saltiness.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A flavorful blend of herbs like oregano or thyme adds depth to the recipe.
• Paprika: Enhances the flavor with a subtle smoky touch. Choose sweet or smoked paprika based on your preference.

Pro Tip: Check the recipe card below for detailed ingredient measurements and substitutions!

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up before cooking the chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Sear for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sit for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat to prevent burning.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the garlic butter sauce over the pieces in the skillet. Gently coat each chicken breast to infuse them with the rich, buttery flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the chicken to serving plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired. Pair with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that your family will love. Try it tonight and elevate your dinner game!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe turns out flawless with these helpful tips:

1. Even Cooking: Cut all ingredients to similar sizes for uniform cooking and to avoid under- or overcooking.
2. Temperature Control: Bring chicken and other ingredients to room temperature before cooking for better texture and flavor.
3. Advanced Technique: Marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture overnight for an extra burst of flavor. This simple step makes a noticeable difference!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty option to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce.
• Fresh Salad: The crispness of a salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory chicken.
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for savoring every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
• Pasta: The garlic butter sauce coats pasta beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a meal that suits your preferences. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken

Make Ahead:
You can marinate the chicken in garlic butter up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor. Mix softened butter, minced garlic, and seasonings, then coat the chicken. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Storing:
Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container after it has cooled. Enjoy within 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating:
To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to retain moisture. Heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions about Garlic Butter Chicken

1. What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. The combination of garlic, herbs, and butter creates an irresistible flavor that pairs well with various sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables. The chicken can be pan-seared or baked, offering versatility for different cooking preferences.

2. How Do I Make Garlic Butter Chicken?

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is simple:

• Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices.
• Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
• Sear the chicken in the skillet until golden brown.
• Finish cooking by simmering it in the garlic butter sauce or baking it for enhanced flavor.
  Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the dish to the next level.

3. What Ingredients Are Needed?

The primary ingredients include:

• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic cloves
• Seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika

Optional additions: herbs (parsley, thyme) for extra aroma, lemon juice for acidity, or chicken broth for a deeper sauce flavor.

4. How Long Does It Take to Cook?

Cooking time varies between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken and your cooking method. Pan-searing followed by oven finishing usually takes around 15 minutes per side. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. If you’re short on time, defrost in cold water. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual.

6. What Sides Pair Well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or rice pilaf
• Sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli
• Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Crusty garlic bread for soaking up the sauce

These sides complement the dish’s rich flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.