You know, there’s something magical about coming home after a long day, opening the fridge, and realizing you have everything to whip up something special. That’s how I first stumbled upon the garlic butter chicken recipe.

I was craving something flavorful but didn’t want to spend hours cooking. The smell of sizzling butter infused with garlic filled my kitchen, and it instantly became my go-to comfort dish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll start making it every other week. It’s that good. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or trying to impress guests, this recipe is fail-proof yet oh-so-delicious!

Cooking Time

Getting the timing right makes your kitchen experience smooth and stress-free. Here’s how the timing breaks down for this recipe:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Time-Saving Tips

Pre-mince your garlic or use pre-chopped garlic if you’re in a hurry.
Use thin chicken breasts or pound them slightly to cook more evenly and quickly.

This recipe is perfectly suited for those busy nights when all you want is a quick, hearty meal.

Essential Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this garlic butter chicken recipe effortlessly, you’ll need a few basic tools. Here are some must-have kitchen gadgets to get started:

Non-stick skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowls for seasoning
Spatula or tongs for turning the chicken pieces
Garlic press (optional but makes mincing garlic faster)
Meat thermometer (to ensure perfectly cooked chicken)

Having these items ready will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of easy ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. They’re simple, affordable, and possibly already in your kitchen!

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons heavy cream (for a creamy sauce option)
½ cup chicken broth (if you want extra gravy)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Tips:

Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
If you’re looking for healthy ingredients, opt for low-sodium butter and broth.

How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken?

Making garlic butter chicken is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps for the perfect buttery, garlicky chicken every time!

Step 1. Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick better. Season both sides with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and add unsalted butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and stir frequently until fragrant (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4. Combine and Cook

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them. If you’re adding cream or chicken broth, mix it in now for a richer flavor. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy).

Step 5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your restaurant-quality garlic butter chicken at home!

Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative pairings? Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Side Dishes:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed asparagus or sauteed green beans
Fluffy white rice or quinoa
Garnish Options:
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for tanginess 🍋
- Scatter shredded Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness

Trust me, these pairings will take your meal to the next level!

Tips for Better Garlic Butter Chicken

For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Making It Nutritious: Add a handful of spinach or kale into the skillet towards the end of cooking.
For Crispy Chicken: Lightly coat the chicken breasts in flour before searing them for a crispy exterior.
Customize to Your Taste: Experiment with spices like cayenne for a spicy kick or turmeric for a unique twist.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sodium: 400mg

Keep in mind these values might change if you use substitutes or additional toppings.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Quick Tip: Keep extra sauce on hand to add moisture when reheating!