Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs instead. They will give a slightly different flavor but remain juicy and tender.

Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the salt levels in the dish. If you want a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon, but fresh minced garlic adds a lot more flavor.

Chicken Broth: You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. Homemade broth will enhance the taste more than store-bought options.

Heavy Cream: For a creamy texture, heavy cream works best. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use coconut milk or a cashew cream for a vegan option.

What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Chicken?

Cooking chicken so it stays juicy can be tricky, but a few tips help. First, don’t overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temp of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is a smart way to ensure this.

• Try to sear the chicken on high heat first. This keeps the juices inside.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.

Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or a mix of oregano and thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delightful meal option for any day of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. If you like a crispy outside, you can lightly coat each piece with flour, shaking off any extra. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. After it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant but not browned. You’ll love that smell!

4. Add Broth and Cream:

Pour in the chicken broth and use your spatula to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor! If you’re using heavy cream for a richer sauce, add it now along with the dried Italian herbs. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of that delicious sauce over each piece. Let them warm in the sauce for about 2 minutes, ensuring they soak up all the goodness!

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Finally, garnish your garlic butter chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, like rice or steamed vegetables, and enjoy this mouthwatering meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. The best method is to place them in the fridge overnight. For a quicker option, seal them in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.

How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For the cream, use coconut milk or a cashew cream to maintain a creamy texture without the dairy.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli is a great way to enhance the dish. Just sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken and before adding the garlic and other ingredients to incorporate more flavor and nutrition!