As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter enveloped me like a warm hug. This is the moment I knew—a quick, unforgettable meal was just around the corner. Enter my 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken, a dish that turns any busy weeknight into a culinary delight. With tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection and kissed by a rich garlic butter sauce—sometimes enhanced with a splash of white wine—this recipe is a lifesaver for frantic evenings. Not only is it delightfully easy to whip up in one skillet, but it’s also a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with rice or a crisp salad. Can you resist the allure of a homemade dinner that’s ready in just fifteen minutes? Let’s dive into the magic of garlic butter together!
Why is Garlic Butter Chicken So Special?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe allows even beginner cooks to create a restaurant-quality dish without stress.
Rich, Delicious Flavor: The garlic butter sauce elevates the chicken to new heights, making every bite a true indulgence.
Family-Friendly: Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
One-Skillet Convenience: Less cleanup means you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
Versatile: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts or toss in some sautéed veggies, making it a customizable dish that fits your pantry.
For a delightful balance, try serving with a side salad or some of that irresistible Orange Cauliflower Chicken to complete your meal!
Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up this quick and easy dish!
For the Chicken
• Olive Oil – Provides moisture and aids in browning the chicken.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1½ pounds) – Tender main protein, pounded for uniform cooking.
• 21 Salute Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning (1-2 teaspoons) – Adds depth of flavor; Italian herbs can be used as a substitute.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the natural flavors of chicken; adjust to your taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon) – Adds heat; feel free to adjust based on preference.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• White Wine (½ cup) or Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing, adding a flavor depth; dry wine works best, but broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons) – Creates a rich, buttery sauce; adjust for your desired sauce amount.
• Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced) – The key flavor component; increase for a stronger garlic taste.
• Fresh Parsley (2 teaspoons, optional) – Adds a fresh touch and color for garnishing.
Let your family savor the irresistible flavors of garlic butter chicken and enjoy a meal that’s both quick and unforgettable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, enough to create a thin layer coating the bottom of the skillet. Let it heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering, signaling it’s ready for the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the skillet heats, pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Season both sides generously with 21 Salute seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This enhances the flavor of your Garlic Butter Chicken as it sears.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet without crowding. Sear for about 5 to 7 minutes without moving them, allowing a beautiful golden crust to form. You’ll know it’s time to flip when the bottoms are nicely browned.
Step 4: Cook the Second Side
After flipping, cook the other side of the chicken for another 5 minutes, ensuring it is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Lower the heat to medium, and carefully pour in ½ cup of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon, which adds flavor to your dish. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce. Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden. This rich garlic butter will be the star of your Garlic Butter Chicken.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, tossing it gently in the garlic butter sauce to ensure it’s well-coated. Let it simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors and reheat, creating a mouthwatering harmony of tastes.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from heat. Optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken immediately, spooning the luscious sauce over rice or alongside a crisp salad for a delightful meal.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken
-
Pound Evenly: Make sure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking, preventing any dry or overcooked parts.
-
Sear Without Disturbing: To achieve that golden crust, resist the temptation to move the chicken around while it sears. Patience pays off!
-
Careful Deglazing: When deglazing the skillet, add the wine or broth slowly. It can bubble and steam, so take care to avoid splatters.
-
Adjust the Garlic: Experiment with the amount of garlic to find your family’s perfect balance. More garlic can elevate the flavor significantly, but start modestly!
-
Customize Your Dish: Don’t hesitate to throw in some sautéed veggies or swap chicken thighs for breasts. This Garlic Butter Chicken is as versatile as it is delicious!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken
Transform your quick meal into a feast with these delightful pairings that enhance every bite of savory garlic butter goodness.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes absorbs the rich garlic butter sauce beautifully, making each forkful a heavenly experience. Pairing this classic side adds comfort and warmth to your dinner table.
-
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and vibrant, steamed green beans provide a crunchy contrast that perfectly complements the rich, buttery sauce, making your plate visually appealing and nutritious.
-
Crisp Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing offers a refreshing balance to the savory chicken, elevating your meal to new levels of deliciousness.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a touch of sweetness and color, while their caramelized edges contrast wonderfully with the silky sauce—perfect for a satisfying experience!
-
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the leftover garlic butter sauce, garlic bread adds a deliciously crunchy texture, making every last bite enjoyable and indulgent. Don’t forget to serve it warm!
-
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, beautifully complements the dish. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the garlic butter and enhances the flavors of the chicken.
-
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad serves as a sweet palate cleanser, offering a contrasting flavor profile that is delightful after the savory chicken. It adds brightness and keeps the meal light!
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Garlic Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 4 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
-
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
-
Serving Suggestions: Pair your reheated chicken with fresh rice or a side salad to recreate that delightful meal experience.
Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists that’ll make your Garlic Butter Chicken even more exciting!
-
Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat; adjust cooking time for juicy results. Thighs are often richer and can add another layer of flavor to your dish.
-
Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Just sauté them separately before adding to the chicken for an effortless one-skillet charm.
-
Herbed Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the garlic butter for a fragrant upgrade. This small change can transform the whole vibe of your dish, making it feel more gourmet.
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that’ll tantalize your taste buds. Just a pinch can elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken to fiery heights!
-
Citrusy Twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lime zest at the end adds a bright contrast to the rich butter flavor. Pair this with a light salad or fresh bread to balance out the meal.
-
Wine Swap: If you want to skip the wine, use some homemade chicken broth instead; it keeps things hearty and flavorful without the alcohol. You won’t miss a beat with this satisfying alternative!
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream after deglazing for a richer sauce, turning it into a comforting, dreamy dish. This is perfect when served with crusty bread to mop up all that creamy goodness.
-
Classic Pairing: Serve alongside a refreshing crisp salad or with warm, fluffy rice to soak up that tasty garlic butter sauce, turning dinner into a delightful feast. This touch makes your meal feel extra special, just like my inspiring Orange Cauliflower Chicken recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can season the pounded chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the garlic butter sauce can be prepared in advance—just combine the melted butter and garlic mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken’s juicy quality, be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear the chicken as instructed, reheat the sauce while the chicken cooks, and toss them together for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Garlic Butter Chicken?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook time and tender result. However, chicken thighs also work beautifully if you prefer a juicier cut. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to reach the appropriate internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How long can I store Garlic Butter Chicken leftovers?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure the chicken is cooled completely before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Garlic Butter Chicken for up to 4 months. To do this, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
What should I do if my Garlic Butter Chicken is dry?
If you find your chicken has ended up a bit dry, it’s likely due to overcooking. To prevent this, ensure even pounded thickness before cooking and avoid moving it while searing. When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to the pan to help retain moisture and revitalize that delicious sauce.
Can my pets eat Garlic Butter Chicken?
While chicken is generally safe for dogs, the garlic used in this recipe can be harmful to them. It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with your pets. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly option, simply cook plain chicken without any seasonings as an occasional treat!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Garlic Butter Chicken?
To elevate the flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the skillet to create a heartier meal while still keeping the recipe quick and simple.
Garlic Butter Chicken That's Ready in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.