Discover how to make juicy, tender garlic butter chicken with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious meal any day of the week. Ready in just 30 minutes!
Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a savory and indulgent dish that has gained immense popularity due to its rich flavor, simplicity, and versatility. Combining the smooth richness of butter with the aromatic punch of garlic, this dish offers a comforting, mouthwatering experience with every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
At its core, garlic butter chicken is made by cooking chicken in a flavorful garlic butter sauce that infuses the meat with savory goodness. Whether you’re pan-searing, baking, or grilling the chicken, the combination of garlic and butter ensures a juicy, tender result, while also creating a golden, slightly crispy exterior.
What makes this dish stand out is its ability to pair with a wide variety of side dishes, making it a flexible meal that can cater to different tastes. From roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
The beauty of garlic butter chicken lies in its simplicity—just a few key ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor, satisfying, and sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients in Garlic Butter Chicken
The success of garlic butter chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. With just a few essential components, you can create a dish that is rich, aromatic, and satisfying. Here are the key ingredients that make up this delicious recipe:
1. Chicken
The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken. You can choose from various cuts depending on your preference:
- Chicken breasts: These are lean and cook quickly, making them a popular choice for garlic butter chicken.
- Chicken thighs: Offering more flavor and tenderness, chicken thighs are perfect for those who prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Bone-in chicken: For a more rustic option, bone-in chicken provides extra flavor, but it will take a bit longer to cook.
Regardless of the cut you choose, the chicken should be seasoned properly to complement the garlic butter sauce, ensuring that the flavors permeate the meat.
2. Garlic
Garlic is the key flavoring agent in garlic butter chicken. It provides a rich, aromatic base that infuses the sauce with a robust flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are the best option, as they offer the most potent flavor and natural sweetness when cooked. Be sure to mince or crush the garlic finely to release its oils and ensure it blends well into the butter. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic or garlic paste can be used, but fresh garlic gives the best results.
3. Butter
Butter is the essential ingredient that creates the rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken. The smoothness of the butter balances the strong, pungent flavor of garlic, resulting in a harmonious and flavorful sauce. You can use unsalted butter for more control over the seasoning, or salted butter if you prefer a bit of extra flavor. The butter also helps in browning the chicken, creating a slightly crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
4. Olive Oil
While butter is the main fat used in the dish, a small amount of olive oil is often added to help sear the chicken without burning the butter. Olive oil also adds an additional layer of flavor and helps the chicken cook more evenly. It’s important not to overdo it, as you want the butter to remain the primary flavor.
5. Herbs
Fresh or dried herbs elevate the garlic butter sauce and add depth to the dish. Common choices include:
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
- Thyme: A savory herb that pairs perfectly with chicken, thyme adds an earthy flavor that complements the garlic.
- Rosemary: Rosemary’s strong, aromatic profile can give the dish a bold, pine-like flavor.
- Basil: Fresh basil adds a slight sweetness and freshness that balances the savory elements.
A combination of these herbs is often used, but you can adjust based on your preferences.
6. Lemon
Lemon juice and lemon zest are often added to garlic butter chicken for a touch of acidity that brightens up the rich sauce. The citrusy notes from the lemon cut through the heaviness of the butter, creating a well-rounded, balanced flavor. You can either squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the sauce or use the zest to bring an extra layer of citrus aroma.
7. Salt and Pepper
Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients. Salt enhances the taste of the garlic butter sauce, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a bit of spice and depth. Adjust the amount according to your taste, but don’t forget to season the chicken before cooking it as well.
8. Chicken Stock (Optional)
Some recipes include a small amount of chicken stock or broth to add extra depth to the sauce. The stock helps to create a more liquid consistency for the garlic butter sauce, making it easier to pour over the chicken and any side dishes you serve it with. It also adds additional umami flavor to the dish.
These simple ingredients come together to create the irresistible garlic butter sauce that makes this dish so beloved. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and the rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce ensures that it is always a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
Making garlic butter chicken at home is quick, simple, and incredibly rewarding. The dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and a few steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this dish perfectly :
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock (optional for a more liquid sauce)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Before cooking, make sure the chicken is properly seasoned. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a better sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. You can also add a bit of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
If you’re using chicken breasts, you may want to consider butterflying them (cutting them in half horizontally) to ensure they cook more evenly and quickly. For thicker pieces, you can also pound them to an even thickness.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, or until they develop a golden, crispy crust on one side. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
Flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium. Continue to cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for boneless chicken breasts. If you’re using chicken thighs, they may need an extra minute or two depending on thickness.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic butter sauce. In the same skillet, remove the chicken once it’s cooked and set it aside on a plate. In the leftover juices, melt the butter over medium heat, scraping up any flavorful browned bits left in the pan from the chicken.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Add the fresh thyme and rosemary (if using), and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Add the Lemon and Stock
Once the garlic is aromatic, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pan. If you want a richer, more liquid sauce, pour in the chicken stock at this stage, and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and allow the flavors to meld together.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary. The sauce should be savory, slightly tangy from the lemon, and rich from the butter.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the garlic butter sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is coated in the sauce and heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully coated in the garlic butter sauce, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the garlic butter chicken immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to get a good sear on each piece.
- Use room temperature chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Customize the sauce: Feel free to add a splash of white wine, Parmesan cheese, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a different flavor profile.
- For crispy chicken: Ensure the pan is preheated and the chicken is dry before cooking to achieve a crispy exterior.
Garlic butter chicken is a versatile dish that’s easy to make but rich in flavor, and with just a few simple steps, you can have a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the tender chicken, the rich garlic butter sauce, and the comforting combination of herbs and lemon.
Cooking Methods for Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a versatile dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile. Whether you prefer a crispy, golden crust or a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite, there’s a method that will suit your taste. Here are the most popular cooking methods for garlic butter chicken:
1. Pan-Searing
Pan-searing is one of the quickest and most popular methods for cooking garlic butter chicken, especially when using boneless chicken breasts or thighs. This method results in a beautifully crisp, golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
How to Pan-Sear:
- Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
- Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- After removing the chicken, make the garlic butter sauce in the same pan, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor.
Pan-searing is ideal for those who prefer a bit of crunch and a rich, flavorful exterior. The garlic butter sauce is perfect for spooning over the chicken and the sides.
2. Oven-Baking
Baking it in the oven is a hands-off method that allows you to cook the chicken more evenly and avoid overcooking. This method works well for bone-in chicken pieces or thicker cuts, as it provides consistent heat without needing constant attention.
How to Oven-Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce by melting butter in a skillet and adding garlic and herbs.
- Season your chicken and place it in an oven-safe dish or on a baking sheet.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes (depending on the thickness of the chicken) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is tender.
Oven-baked garlic butter chicken is ideal for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to cooking, allowing you to focus on preparing side dishes while the chicken cooks evenly in the oven.
3. Grilling
Grilling adds a smoky flavor to garlic butter chicken, making it a great option for summer cookouts or when you want to infuse the chicken with a charred, grilled taste. This method works particularly well for chicken breasts, thighs, or even wings.
How to Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken and brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While grilling, baste the chicken with garlic butter to keep it moist and add flavor.
- Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest before serving.
Grilled garlic butter chicken is perfect for outdoor gatherings and provides a delicious contrast of smoky and buttery flavors. The high heat helps achieve a slightly crispy, caramelized crust.
4. Slow Cooker
For a more hands-off approach, cooking garlic butter chicken in a slow cooker allows the chicken to cook slowly in the flavorful garlic butter sauce, resulting in tender, fall-apart chicken. This method is ideal for those who want a meal ready when they come home from work or a busy day.
How to Slow Cook:
- Season the chicken and place it in the slow cooker.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Set the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, it should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
Slow-cooked garlic butter chicken is perfect for making shredded chicken for tacos, sandwiches, or even as a main dish with sides. The slow cooking process helps the flavors meld together and results in incredibly tender meat.
5. Instant Pot
Using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker is a great way to cook garlic butter chicken quickly while keeping it juicy and flavorful. The pressure helps seal in moisture, making the chicken tender while absorbing the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
How to Use the Instant Pot:
- Season the chicken and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Sear the chicken on both sides for a few minutes until golden.
- Add the garlic butter sauce and chicken stock (if using) to the pot.
- Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
- Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure and serve the chicken with the garlic butter sauce.
The Instant Pot is perfect for those who want a fast, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a rich, garlicky sauce.
6. Stovetop and Broiling Combo
For a combination of crispy sear and tender, juicy interior, you can start the chicken on the stovetop and finish it under the broiler. This method is great for those who enjoy a slightly crispy skin without drying out the meat.
How to Use Stovetop and Broiling:
- Start by searing the chicken on the stovetop, as you would with the pan-searing method, until the outside is golden and crisp.
- Transfer the pan to the broiler (or place the chicken on a baking sheet under the broiler) and cook for another 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, spoon the garlic butter sauce over it for a final burst of flavor.
This combination method is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds: a crispy exterior with a juicy interior.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Side Dishes
Garlic butter chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The creamy, savory garlic butter sauce adds depth to the meal, making it an excellent choice for balancing with both light and hearty accompaniments. Whether you prefer vegetables, grains, or potatoes, here are some perfect side dishes to serve with :
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a fantastic, healthy side dish to complement the richness of the dish . The natural sweetness of vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers pairs beautifully with the savory garlic butter sauce. Roasting caramelizes the vegetables, bringing out their deep, sweet flavors and creating a perfect contrast to the savory chicken.
How to Roast:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut vegetables like carrots, zucchini, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts into even-sized pieces.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
2. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic, comforting side that pairs well with the creamy garlic butter chicken sauce. The creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce, enhancing the dish’s flavor and making every bite satisfying. You can opt for traditional mashed potatoes or add a twist with roasted garlic, sour cream, or Parmesan for extra richness.
How to Make:
- Boil peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until tender (about 10-15 minutes).
- Mash the potatoes with butter, cream, milk, salt, and pepper to your preferred texture.
- For added flavor, mix in roasted garlic or grated cheese.
3. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a light yet flavorful option that absorbs the garlic butter sauce, complementing the richness of the chicken. The subtle flavors of the rice make it a versatile side dish that works well with a variety of vegetables and herbs. You can add a touch of lemon zest or fresh herbs to elevate the dish.
How to Make:
- Sauté onions and garlic in a bit of butter or olive oil until softened.
- Add rice and stir to toast for a minute or two.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Garnish with parsley or toasted almonds for extra flavor and texture.
4. Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus is a light, nutritious side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken. The slight crunch of asparagus and its subtle flavor contrast nicely with the savory, buttery sauce. It’s quick to prepare and adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
How to Steam:
- Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and steam for 4-6 minutes, or until just tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- For added richness, drizzle a little extra garlic butter sauce over the asparagus.
5. Garlic Bread
For those who love extra garlic flavor, garlic bread is an excellent choice. The crispy, buttery bread with a hint of garlic enhances the entire meal, making it a perfect side to dip into the garlic butter sauce from the chicken. You can opt for classic garlic bread or make it with a touch of Parmesan for added flavor.
How to Make:
- Slice a baguette or Italian bread and spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking.
6. Cauliflower Rice
For a lighter, low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great substitute for traditional rice. The mild flavor of cauliflower allows the garlic butter chicken to shine while offering a healthier alternative. It’s also a great way to add more vegetables to your meal.
How to Make:
- Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains.
- Sauté in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- You can add herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
7. Pasta
Pasta is another great option to serve with garlic butter chicken. The pasta will soak up the garlic butter sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish. You can go with classic spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken.
How to Make:
- Cook pasta according to the package instructions.
- Once cooked, toss the pasta with some of the garlic butter sauce and fresh herbs.
- Serve alongside or under the garlic butter chicken for a comforting, indulgent meal.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a delicious and slightly sweet side that complements the savory flavors of garlic butter chicken. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with the rich butter sauce, making it an ideal side for summer cookouts or casual dinners.
How to Grill:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the corn with butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and has a slight char.
- Serve with an extra drizzle of garlic butter for added flavor.
9. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts add a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that contrasts well with the buttery chicken. When roasted until crispy, they become a delicious, crunchy side that adds both texture and flavor to the meal. They also absorb the garlic butter sauce, enhancing their natural flavor.
How to Make:
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- Drizzle with garlic butter sauce just before serving.
Nutritional Value of Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish, but like many rich, creamy recipes, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. The ingredients—chicken, butter, garlic, and herbs—come together to create a hearty meal that provides protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, the richness of the butter and the calories it brings can add up, so understanding the nutritional value of the dish can help you make more informed decisions about how to enjoy it.
1. Calories in Garlic Butter Chicken
The calorie content of garlic butter chicken will depend on the portion size and the specific ingredients used. On average, a serving of garlic butter chicken (about 4 oz of cooked chicken breast) with garlic butter sauce contains approximately 400-500 calories. The calorie count may increase if you use a larger portion of chicken or add extra butter for a richer sauce.
- Chicken Breast (4 oz): 160-180 calories
- Butter (1 tablespoon): 100 calories
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): 120 calories
If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, you can use less butter or substitute with a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt or a butter substitute, though this will slightly change the flavor profile.
2. Protein Content
One of the biggest benefits of garlic butter chicken is its high protein content. Chicken, especially lean cuts like chicken breast, is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
- Chicken Breast (4 oz): Approximately 25-30 grams of protein
Protein is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can help with appetite control. the dish is an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
3. Fats in Garlic Butter Chicken
The fat content of garlic butter chicken primarily comes from the butter and olive oil used in the recipe. While these fats add richness and flavor, they also contribute to the overall calorie count.
- Butter: Contains saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. A tablespoon of butter contains around 7 grams of fat, 4 grams of which are saturated.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option, rich in monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health. A tablespoon of olive oil contains about 14 grams of fat, most of which is monounsaturated.
If you’re looking for a healthier fat profile, you can reduce the butter and increase the olive oil in the recipe, or use alternatives like avocado oil, which is also rich in heart-healthy fats.
4. Carbohydrates
Garlic butter chicken is a low-carb dish, making it suitable for ketogenic or low-carb diets. The main ingredients—chicken, butter, garlic, and herbs—are naturally free of carbs. However, if you serve it with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or bread, the overall carbohydrate content of the meal will increase.
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, it’s best to pair garlic butter chicken with vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower rice, or a simple salad to keep the carb count low.
5. Vitamins and Minerals
Garlic butter chicken also provides several essential vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin B6: Chicken is an excellent source of vitamin B6, which is important for metabolism and the creation of neurotransmitters.
- Iron: Chicken, especially dark meat, contains iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Vitamin A: If you include herbs like parsley or rosemary in the recipe, you will also benefit from small amounts of vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.
- Sodium: Depending on the amount of salt you add to the dish, garlic butter chicken can be high in sodium. To control sodium intake, consider using unsalted butter and moderating the amount of added salt.
6. Cholesterol
Because of the butter used in garlic butter chicken, the dish may contain a moderate amount of cholesterol. One tablespoon of butter has about 31 mg of cholesterol, so if you are managing cholesterol intake, consider reducing the amount of butter or using alternatives like plant-based butter.
7. Making It Healthier
To make garlic butter chicken healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these modifications:
- Use less butter: Reduce the amount of butter in the sauce or substitute with a healthier fat like olive oil or avocado oil.
- Opt for chicken thighs: If you prefer juicier meat, chicken thighs are a good option, though they will contain slightly more fat and calories than chicken breasts.
- Serve with vegetables: Pair the chicken with nutrient-dense vegetables like steamed broccoli, roasted cauliflower, or a fresh salad to increase the meal’s fiber content while keeping it low in carbs.
FAQ: Garlic Butter Chicken
1. What kind of chicken should I use for garlic butter chicken?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or even bone-in cuts. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs are the most common choice as they cook faster and are easier to work with. However, bone-in chicken pieces will add more flavor.
2. Can I make garlic butter chicken with chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken breasts work great for garlic butter chicken. You can either sear them whole or cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking. Just be mindful of the cooking time to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
3. How do I prevent the garlic butter sauce from burning?
Garlic can burn quickly, especially when cooked at high heat. To avoid burning, cook the garlic in butter over medium heat and stir frequently. If you’re making the sauce in the pan after cooking the chicken, ensure the heat is low when you add the garlic.
4. Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt to your liking, as salted butter already contains salt.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken and prepare the garlic butter sauce, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to avoid overcooking the chicken.
6. What can I serve with garlic butter chicken?
Garlic butter chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a richer, indulgent meal.
7. Can I freeze garlic butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked garlic butter chicken. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in a pan or microwave.
8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut the chicken open at its thickest part – it should be opaque, with no pink remaining.
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it for guests, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both indulgent and comforting. The beauty of garlic butter chicken lies in its versatility—feel free to adjust the seasonings and sides to suit your preferences. Whether paired with a side of vegetables, pasta, or rice, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the savory goodness of garlic butter chicken, and happy cooking!
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PrintThe Best Garlic Butter Chicken You’ll Ever Try
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken is a savory, comforting dish with juicy chicken breasts coated in a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce. The garlic and herbs infuse the chicken with incredible flavor, and the sauce can be drizzled over the chicken for added richness.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner