This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that fills your kitchen with a yummy aroma.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Pair it with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious dinner. Bonus: your family will think you’re a kitchen superstar! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish light and juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even shrimp for a quick seafood twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe to give that aromatic punch! If you’re out of fresh garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as intense.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. Margarine could be used as a substitute, but nothing beats the richness of real butter. You could also use olive oil for a lighter option.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, making it delightful. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken is all about cooking it correctly. Here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure you pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this helps it brown nicely.
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear on the chicken, locking in moisture.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—just until it’s no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; 165°F (75°C) is the safe temperature for chicken.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Garlic Butter Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check if they’re done by cutting into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
Stir in the dried Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly, making it more flavorful.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of that yummy sauce over the top and let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken warms up and absorbs the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice. Enjoy your delicious Easy Garlic Butter Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even boneless, skinless chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken thighs may take a bit longer, around 7-8 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water can work as substitutes. Just keep in mind that using water might result in a less flavorful sauce, so adding a pinch of salt may help enhance the taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Adding a splash of broth can help keep the chicken moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Sure! If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes when you’re sautĂ©ing the garlic or drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken just before serving. It’s an easy way to kick up the flavor!
