Name: One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken in 15 Minutes of Pure Joy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Pound to an even thickness for juicy texture); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Season to your taste preference); 0.5 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Can be replaced with pre-ground pepper); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Essential for sautéing); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Provides richness to the sauce); 4 cloves Garlic (Use fresh minced garlic for best flavor); 0.5 cup White Wine or Chicken Broth (Use broth for non-alcoholic option); 1 teaspoon 21 Salute Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning (Introduces flavor depth); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Optional, adds freshness)

A sizzling skillet filled with tender chicken, glistening in golden garlic butter sauce, sets the stage for a delightful weeknight dinner. This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe not only packs a flavorful punch but can be on your table in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who crave homemade meals but are short on time. Imagine the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this quick meal—it’s a surefire way to impress family or friends without the fuss. Plus, it’s a versatile dish; feel free to add in your favorite veggies or serve it over a fluffy bed of rice for a hearty meal. What’s your favorite way to enjoy a one-skillet dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why is Garlic Butter Chicken so beloved?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter sauce elevates the chicken, creating a dish that feels gourmet but is super simple to make.

Versatile Options: Feel free to add veggies like broccoli or asparagus for a nutritious boost, making it a complete meal in one pan.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s nearly impossible to resist tender chicken bathed in that golden sauce, making it a guaranteed hit with family and friends.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Leftovers keep well in the fridge, ensuring you’ll have tasty meals ready to go throughout the week, perfect for pairing with sides like Chopped Chicken Bacon or Street Corn Chicken!

Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish; pound to an even thickness for juicy texture.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the chicken’s flavor; season to your taste preference.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; can be replaced with pre-ground pepper.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; substitute with butter or avocado oil if desired.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce; add more for a larger sauce quantity.
• Garlic – The key flavor; use fresh minced garlic for the best impact, but jarred can work in a pinch.
• White Wine or Chicken Broth – Deglazes the pan and adds depth; use broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• 21 Salute Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning – Introduces flavor depth; swap with your favorite herb blend.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Optional but adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.

This quick and straightforward list of Garlic Butter Chicken ingredients sets you up perfectly for a delicious, speedy meal that is sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful sear on your chicken, which will bring out rich flavors and keep your garlic butter chicken juicy and tender.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the skillet heats, pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 21 Salute seasoning. This not only enhances flavor but also sets the stage for a delicious garlic butter chicken that’s bursting with taste.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Once your skillet is ready, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot oil. Allow them to sear without moving for about 5 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The sizzling sound and enticing aroma will let you know you’re on the right track to a mouthwatering garlic butter chicken!

Step 4: Flip the Chicken
After 5 minutes, use tongs to gently flip the chicken breasts. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the other side is a glorious golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your garlic butter chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful, ready to absorb the scrumptious sauce.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making your garlic butter chicken even more succulent and tender.

Step 6: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in ½ cup of white wine or chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release the flavorful browned bits. Allow the liquid to bubble for about 2 minutes, intensifying the flavors and creating a lovely base for your garlic butter sauce that will envelop the chicken.

Step 7: Make the Sauce
Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the bubbling liquid, stirring continuously until melted and combined. This rich garlic butter sauce is what elevates your garlic butter chicken, bringing a beautiful silkiness that perfectly clings to each piece of chicken for an indulgent experience.

Step 8: Stir in Garlic
Next, add in 4 cloves of minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen and indicate that it’s time to return the chicken to the pan. This step is essential for infusing the sauce with bold garlic flavor that complements your chicken beautifully.

Step 9: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them thoroughly in the garlicky butter sauce. Cook for another minute to warm the chicken through and allow it to soak in all the delicious flavors of the garlic butter. This final touch is what truly makes your garlic butter chicken shine!

Step 10: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your garlic butter chicken immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite veggies for a complete meal. The picturesque presentation will make your dish not only tasty but also visually appealing!

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pound for Uniformity: Always pound chicken to an even thickness; this ensures even cooking and prevents dryness, making your garlic butter chicken tender and juicy.
Don’t Disturb While Searing: Avoid moving the chicken too much while it sears. This forms a delicious crust and enhances flavor, giving a beautiful golden brown finish.
Deglaze Carefully: When you add wine or broth, be cautious as the liquid will steam. This step is essential for a depth of flavor in your garlic butter sauce.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, opt for fresh garlic over jarred. Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the sauce, making your garlic butter chicken more aromatic and vibrant.
Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (165°F/75°C). This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without being overdone or dry.
Garnish Smartly: Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color. It not only enhances presentation but also adds a touch of freshness to your garlic butter chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze garlic butter chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 4 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet on low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture if needed.

Make-Ahead Tip: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook a double batch and portion it out for quick and delicious dinners throughout the week.

Garlic Butter Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious ways to customize your garlic butter chicken and make it truly your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a creamy texture without dairy.
This change still delivers rich flavors, and it perfectly complements the garlic and herbs in the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat.
This twist enhances flavor while adding a delightful kick that spice lovers will appreciate!
One-Pan Veggie Medley: Toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during the final cooking stage.
This not only boosts nutrition but also adds a vibrant color that brightens up your meal.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a different aromatic profile.
The distinct flavors from these herbs will weave beautifully into your garlic butter sauce.
Lemon Zest: For a bright, fresh taste, mix in the zest of a lemon along with the garlic.
This adds an invigorating touch that balances the richness of the butter while brightening the dish.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap out chicken for shrimp for a flavorful seafood twist on this recipe, cooking just until pink and tender.
This quick variation gives you a whole new take on garlic butter goodness!
Wild Rice Base: Serve your garlic butter chicken over a bed of wild rice instead of traditional white rice for added texture and flavor.
The nuttiness of wild rice pairs perfectly with the silky garlic butter sauce, making every bite memorable.
Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the garlic butter for an Asian-inspired nuance.
This variation will take you on a culinary journey, making it a fun option for a themed dinner night!

I hope these variations inspire you to have a little fun in the kitchen! If you enjoyed this garlic butter chicken, don’t forget to try it with a side of Beef Rotini Garlic or some Bang Bang Chicken for a complete meal experience.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during your busy weeknights! You can marinate and season the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify. Simply pound the chicken, season it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-mince the garlic and store it in a small jar to keep it fresh and ready to use. When you’re ready to serve, just heat your skillet, sear the chicken, and prepare the decadent garlic butter sauce as instructed. This not only streamlines your cooking process but ensures your Garlic Butter Chicken is just as delicious and satisfying as it would be made fresh!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken

A sizzling skillet filled with tender chicken in a golden garlic butter sauce creates the perfect stage for an unforgettable meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture provides a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce of the chicken, capturing every drop of flavor.
Garlic Bread: This classic side not only complements the garlic theme but also offers a wonderful, crunchy texture that enhances your meal’s overall experience.
Steamed Asparagus: The bright, crispiness of asparagus brings a refreshing contrast, adding a pop of color and nutrition to balance the buttery chicken.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate after each bite, making it the perfect accompaniment to this indulgent dish.
Roasted Broccoli: The slight char and earthy flavors of roasted broccoli provide a satisfying crunch, complementing the tender chicken without overwhelming its richness.
Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter chicken, creating a harmonious balance.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay mirrors the wine used in cooking and enhances the flavors of the dish without overpowering it.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light, airy chocolate mousse offers a sweet finish, making your meal memorable and satisfying to the last bite.

Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?
Very easy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it to help maintain its freshness. Reheating them in a skillet with a splash of broth will help restore the delicious garlicky sauce!

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
Certainly! You can freeze Garlic Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 4 months. Be sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth to revive the sauce if needed.

What if my chicken is dry or overcooked?
Don’t worry; this can happen! If your chicken turns out dry, consider incorporating a cap of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil when reheating to add moisture. Alternatively, you can slice the chicken and serve it on a bed of rice or mix it with the garlic butter sauce to create a flavorful dish that offsets the dryness.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free chicken broth in place of regular broth or wine to deglaze the pan. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this Garlic Butter Chicken a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy your flavorful meal without worry!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you have frozen chicken breasts, you can still make this dish. Just ensure to thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator beforehand. It’s best to avoid starting with frozen chicken directly in the skillet, as it will cook unevenly. Planning ahead makes for a perfectly tender Garlic Butter Chicken!