The moment I opened my kitchen door, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of garlic dancing in the air—an instant invitation to create something delicious. This Garlic Butter Chicken is my go-to recipe when I need to impress at the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. With just four ingredients, this dish transforms humble chicken breasts into a rich, garlicky delight in under 30 minutes.
Imagine tender pieces of chicken, perfectly golden and coated in a creamy sauce that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that has everyone reaching for seconds—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining friends. Not only does it satisfy cravings for something hearty, but it also brings a spark of excitement to your dinner routine. Are you ready to bring a little magic to your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises flavors that linger long after the plates are cleared!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken
Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients: Using just four simple ingredients for the sauce, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, perfect for anyone tired of complicated meals.
Rich Flavor: The blend of garlic and butter creates a savory, creamy sauce that elevates basic chicken into a gourmet experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about this delicious dish—perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside Lemon Roasted Potatoes or your favorite veggies for a complete meal that satisfies.
Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
• With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a flavorful feast!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is your main protein; be sure to bring them close to room temperature for juicy results.
- Olive Oil – Use for frying the chicken; choose regular or extra virgin based on your preference.
For the Sauce
- Plain/All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a crispy coating; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds rich creaminess to your sauce; it’s best to measure accurately to control saltiness.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma; don’t skimp on this star ingredient!
- Chicken Stock – Forms the base of the sauce; opt for low-sodium for better control over flavors.
For Seasoning
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlicky goodness; make sure it’s evenly distributed when dredging.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for elevating flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
To Finish
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness as garnish; feel free to substitute with thyme or rosemary in smaller amounts.
- Lemon – Serve with wedges for added brightness to cut through the richness of the sauce.
Dive into this easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe, and watch the smiles grow at your dinner table!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple mixture will create a crispy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken.
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Butterfly the Chicken: Slice the boneless skinless chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner pieces. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating for that golden finish.
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Heat the Pan: In a large frying pan, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the chicken. Fry until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium, and add minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Whisk in the remaining butter until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy consistency.
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Combine and Serve: Stir in the parsley, then return the chicken to the pan, coating it evenly with the rich sauce. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken immediately, drizzled with extra sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Optional: Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken
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Room Temperature Chicken: Bring your chicken breasts to room temperature before cooking. This step helps prevent the meat from becoming tough and chewy during cooking.
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Butter Measurement: Be cautious with your butter usage; measure accurately to control the richness of the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows for better flavor control in your Garlic Butter Chicken.
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Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor infusion, opt for fresh garlic over garlic powder. This ensures your dish is aromatic and savory, delighting everyone at the table.
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Crispy Coating: Avoid rushing the dredging process. Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated in the flour mixture to achieve that desirable crispy texture when frying.
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Low-Sodium Stock: Choose low-sodium chicken stock for more control over the saltiness of the sauce. This allows the natural flavors of the garlic and butter to shine through beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Feel free to bend the rules and customize this recipe to suit your tastes or pantry staples!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option; just adjust the cooking time slightly.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to dredge the chicken if you’re avoiding gluten; the texture will still be deliciously crispy.
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Lighter Sauce: Substitute half the butter with additional chicken broth to lighten the sauce while retaining rich flavor.
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Add Veggies: Incorporate asparagus or broccoli in the pan during the last few minutes of cooking; this adds a nutritious element and vibrant color.
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Herb Variations: Experiment by replacing parsley with fresh thyme or rosemary; use less as these herbs have stronger flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauté for a zesty punch; the heat will balance beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Other Proteins: Consider using fish or pork as alternatives to chicken; just adjust cooking temps and times to ensure they’re cooked to perfection.
Crafting your Garlic Butter Chicken in ways that fit your lifestyle can make this dish a new favorite for everyone!
Make Ahead Options
Garlic Butter Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can butterfly and dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which helps save precious time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can mince the garlic and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; keeping it air-tight will help maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the olive oil, fry the chicken until golden, and follow the usual steps to create the rich sauce. Rest assured, with these make-ahead tips, your Garlic Butter Chicken will be just as delicious and full of flavor!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
Creating a memorable meal experience doesn’t have to be complicated when Garlic Butter Chicken takes center stage!
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Lemon Roasted Potatoes: The zesty flavor of these crispy potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich sauce, complementing the garlic’s brightness without overshadowing it.
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Sautéed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a vibrant, fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the chicken, making each bite refreshing and delightful.
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Garlic Bread: For those who can’t resist more garlic, toast some baguette slices for dipping in the luscious sauce—it’s an irresistible way to ramp up the flavor!
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Mustard Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of these mashers, with their tangy mustard notes, provides a uniquely savory counterpart to the garlic butter sauce.
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Green Beans Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with toasted almonds bring both color and crunch to the plate, enhancing the overall texture of the meal.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette serves as a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken, brightening up your plate with colorful ingredients.
These delicious side dishes are sure to elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken dinner into a full feast, providing a delightful medley of flavors and textures!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to maintain moisture and flavor. Heat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Freshness Tip: For the best flavor, enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken freshly made, but these storage tips will keep your meal delightful for days!
Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Garlic Butter Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They provide the best texture and juiciness when cooked properly, especially if you bring them to room temperature beforehand. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs can also work beautifully!
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, which helps retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled Garlic Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your Garlic Butter Chicken sauce turns out too thin, don’t fret! Simply simmer the sauce on medium heat for a few minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken. You can also mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry; add this to the sauce while it simmers. Stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free if you substitute regular flour with a gluten-free option. Additionally, if you have a dairy allergy or are lactose intolerant, you can replace unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or olive oil, ensuring to adjust flavors as necessary. Always check labels to ensure that ingredients fit your dietary needs.
Savory Garlic Butter Chicken in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Slice the boneless skinless chicken breasts horizontally and dredge in the flour mixture.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium-high heat and add chicken.
- Fry until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side, then set aside.
- Lower heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add chicken stock and remaining butter; whisk until melted and sauce thickens.
- Stir in parsley, return chicken to the pan, and serve immediately.