Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts seared to perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together quickly with minimal ingredients and pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies.

ingredients

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

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

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)garlic (minced)unsalted buttersaltblack pepperItalian seasoning (optional)olive oilfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

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

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

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

In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter.

Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

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

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to coat the chicken well.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of lemon juice or white wine for a zesty twist.

Include red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Add mushrooms or spinach to the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw before cooking for even results.

What sides go well with garlic butter chicken?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed veggies, or rice are excellent choices.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for keto diets.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then finish with garlic butter.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Is this spicy?

Not unless you add chili flakes—otherwise, it’s mild and buttery.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic offers the best flavor.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, season and refrigerate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a go-to dish when you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Its savory, buttery flavor and tender texture make it a family favorite that’s easy to customize and perfect for any night of the week.