Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

by

Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Juicy, golden chicken breasts in a rich, garlicky butter sauce 

This Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and easy dinner idea that tastes like a restaurant-quality dish. Made with tender, seasoned chicken breasts pan-seared to perfection, then smothered in a silky garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Serve it over mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or pasta to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or use low-sodium broth; you can also substitute with water if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for color and depth of flavor.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Deglaze with Broth and Lemon

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the skillet (this adds a ton of flavor). Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate.

5. Return Chicken and Finish

Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let them simmer together for another 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through and well-coated with sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken before serving. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

  • Add veggies: Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus in the sauce before returning the chicken.
  • Use thighs instead: Boneless chicken thighs work just as well and stay extra juicy.
  • Make it creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.

This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is simple, versatile, and full of rich, savory flavors. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together fast and never fails to impress!

Leave a Comment