Garlic Butter Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender, seared chicken breasts with a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for a special occasion. Serve it alongside vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a meal that’s guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a one-pan cooking method, this dish is quick and hassle-free.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce adds a decadent touch that enhances the juicy chicken.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal or use it as a base for creative variations.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness, about 4 average-sized breasts)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup white wine* or chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (add more for extra sauce, if desired)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced, or to taste
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with 21 Salute (or poultry seasoning), salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes on one side without moving it to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Flip the chicken over and cook on the other side for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Using caution, deglaze the skillet by adding white wine (or chicken broth). Allow the liquid to bubble and steam for a few seconds, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
- Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Turn off the heat and return the chicken to the skillet.
- Flip the chicken in the sauce, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Tips for Success
- Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and a tender result. Uneven pieces may cook at different rates, leading to dry or undercooked spots.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor for the sauce. Pre-minced garlic in jars may have a milder taste and alter the dish’s overall profile.
- Deglaze Properly: Scrape up all the browned bits from the skillet to maximize flavor in the sauce. These bits add a deep, rich taste that elevates the entire dish.
- Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures it stays juicy. The juices redistribute within the meat, preventing them from spilling out when sliced.
- Control the Heat: Cook the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a good sear without burning the garlic or butter.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Vegetables:
- Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus: Oven-roasted vegetables add a smoky and slightly charred flavor that complements the rich sauce.
- Glazed Carrots: Sweet and buttery carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
- Potatoes:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these pair wonderfully with the dish.
- Grains:
- Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: Absorb the sauce beautifully while adding texture to the meal.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and aromatic, this grain enhances the dish’s Mediterranean feel.
- Bread:
- Crusty Baguette: Use it to mop up every last drop of the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Adds an extra layer of garlicky goodness to the meal.
Variations
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist. Lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, adding a refreshing flavor.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
- Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after melting the butter to create a richer, creamier sauce. This variation pairs exceptionally well with mashed potatoes or pasta.
Herb-Infused Garlic Butter Chicken
- Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to the sauce for an herbaceous flavor boost. Infuse the herbs by cooking them with the butter and garlic before adding the chicken back to the skillet.
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken
- Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to add heat to the dish. This variation pairs well with cooling sides like a cucumber salad or yogurt dip.
Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before serving. The nutty, salty flavor of the cheese enhances the sauce’s richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
Nutritional Highlights:
- High Protein: This dish is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle repair and overall health.
- Low in Carbs: Ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly diets, especially when paired with non-starchy vegetables.
- Healthy Fats: The combination of olive oil and butter provides essential fats for energy and satiety.
- Vitamin Boost: Adding parsley or other fresh herbs increases the vitamin C and K content.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?
Chicken broth is a great substitute for white wine and provides a similar depth of flavor. For an extra burst of acidity, add a teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice along with the broth.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, combining the chicken and sauce just before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Garlic from Burning?
Add the garlic after the butter has melted and reduce the heat to low to ensure it cooks gently without burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste, so monitor it closely while cooking.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Store them in separate freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken is a timeless recipe that brings together simple ingredients for a dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Customize it with your favorite herbs and spices, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!