Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dinner made with juicy pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights while delivering restaurant-quality flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe?

• Ready in just 30 minutes

• Crispy golden chicken with juicy meat

• Rich buttery garlic flavor

• Uses simple pantry ingredients

• Family-friendly and beginner-friendly

• Perfect with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes

INGREDIENTS:

A. For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional for a crispier crust)

B. For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

C. Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet

• Tongs

• Cutting board

• Sharp knife

• Measuring spoons

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels.

Season both sides with:

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

Lightly coat with flour if using.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

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

2. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

4. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Reduce heat to medium.

2. Add butter to the same skillet.

3. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic.

4. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add:

• Italian seasoning

• Chili flakes

• Lemon juice

Stir well.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

1. Return the chicken to the skillet.

2. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken for 2–3 minutes.

3. Sprinkle chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.

• Don't overcrowd the pan.

• Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

• Add a splash of chicken broth if you want extra sauce.

VARIATIONS:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Add:

1. ½ cup heavy cream

2. ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

3. Mushroom Garlic Butter Chicken

Cook sliced mushrooms before adding the garlic.

Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken

• Add extra chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Herb Butter Chicken

• Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken

• Steamed white rice

• Garlic fried rice

• Mashed potatoes

• Buttered noodles

• Roasted vegetables

• Caesar salad

• Garlic bread

• Pasta

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 39g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fat: 27g

• Saturated Fat: 11g

• Cholesterol: 145mg

• Sodium: 620mg

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work perfectly in this recipe.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then finish by coating the chicken in the garlic butter sauce.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes. Simply omit the flour, and the recipe becomes low in carbohydrates and keto-friendly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat gently before serving.