Garlic butter chicken is the epitome of simple comfort food. With tender chicken bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce and kissed with herbs, this dish is versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes! Let me walk you through how to make this delightful recipe.
Ingredients
1. Chicken Thighs or Breasts (4 pieces)
- Juicy chicken thighs work best for this recipe, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
- Prep Tip: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking.
2. Butter (4 tbsp, unsalted)
- The star of the sauce, butter makes everything rich and flavorful.
- Prep Tip: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
3. Garlic (6 cloves, minced)
- Packed with flavor, garlic brings a warm, aromatic kick to the sauce.
- Prep Tip: Mince garlic finely to ensure it blends seamlessly into the butter.
4. Chicken Broth (½ cup)
- Adds depth to the sauce while keeping it light.
- Prep Tip: Use low-sodium broth to balance flavors.
5. Lemon Juice (2 tbsp)
- Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
- Prep Tip: Roll the lemon on the counter before juicing to release more juice.
6. Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
- For searing the chicken to a golden perfection.
- Prep Tip: Heat the oil until shimmering to achieve a good sear.
7. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- Prep Tip: Season generously before searing for the best crust.
8. Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Place the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to warm the chicken through and coat it in the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and serve immediately. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet for searing and cooking the chicken
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients
- Tongs for flipping the chicken
- Small bowl for juicing lemons
- Spoon or ladle for basting the sauce over the chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken?
Yes, skin-on chicken adds extra flavor and a crispy texture. Just ensure you sear the skin side down first until crispy before flipping.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce. Alternatively, whisk in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of water.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Freshly minced garlic is best for flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be a convenient substitute in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon per clove.
What sides pair well with garlic butter chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, buttered noodles, or a simple side salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely! Rosemary, thyme, or oregano make excellent additions to the garlic butter sauce for added flavor.
Conclusion
This garlic butter chicken recipe is a showstopper for any occasion! It’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, making it a reliable go-to meal for busy nights or entertaining guests. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Don’t forget to share it on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it on Pinterest to make later. Happy cooking! 😊
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