Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful, one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are seared and then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is both comforting and convenient.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)olive oilbuttergarlic (minced)chicken brothlemon juiceseasaltblack pepperparsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.

Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces.

Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top.

Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamy garlic butter sauce.

Stir in grated Parmesan for extra richness.

Toss in spinach or mushrooms for added veggies.

Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.Avoid overcooking to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work just as well and may be even juicier.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all—it’s garlicky and buttery with a hint of lemon brightness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it and store in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

What kind of skillet works best?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel is ideal for a nice sear.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, but for best texture, fresh is recommended. Freeze for up to 1 month.

Can I use jarred garlic?

Fresh is best for flavor, but jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet elegant meal that’s full of flavor and ready in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need a fast dinner after work, this recipe is a guaranteed winner—quick, satisfying, and always delicious.

Print
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Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and pairs well with veggies or rice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
  5. Once butter is melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over the chicken.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
  • Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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