Simple Garlic Butter Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe comes together with minimal ingredients and maximum taste. It pairs beautifully with vegetables, pasta, or rice, making it a versatile and satisfying main course.

ingredients

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

chicken breasts or thighs
unsalted butter
garlic cloves (minced)
olive oil
salt
black pepper
paprika
Italian seasoning
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

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

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

Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

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

Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the garlic butter over the top.

Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the chicken to soak up the sauce.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor and moisture.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the garlic butter for a tangy finish.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a cheesy touch.
Include mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs are juicy and flavorful and work perfectly in this recipe.

What’s the best way to mince garlic?
Use a garlic press or finely chop with a knife for best results.

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt to taste.

Is this dish spicy?
Not at all, but you can add chili flakes if you like heat.

What can I serve with garlic butter chicken?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables are all great options.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, cook and store in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve.

Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well in a keto diet.

Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely—more garlic butter is always a good idea!

What herbs work well in this dish?
Parsley, thyme, and rosemary all complement the garlic butter beautifully.

Conclusion

Simple Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious, no-fuss recipe that brings bold flavor with just a few ingredients. It’s a go-to for busy nights or when you need something comforting and reliable. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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