why make this recipe
This garlic butter chicken is quick, simple, and full of flavor. You need few ingredients and little time. It fits busy weeknights or a simple weekend meal.
introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken is an easy dish with lots of butter and garlic flavor. The recipe uses basic pantry items and cooks fast. You can pair it with a pasta side like creamy garlic butter cajun chicken bowtie pasta for a fuller meal.
how to make Garlic Butter Chicken
Heat the pan, melt the butter, add garlic, and cook the chicken in the garlic butter until golden. Follow the simple steps below and keep the heat at medium so the chicken cooks through without burning the butter. For a creamy pasta side idea, see garlic butter chicken penne in creamy parmesan cream sauce.
Ingredients :
- 4 Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
- 5 cloves Garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup Butter, unsalted
Directions :
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Garlic Butter Chicken
Serve the chicken hot. Spoon the garlic butter from the pan over the chicken. Add a side of steamed vegetables, a salad, or pasta. Slice the chicken and place it over rice or noodles for a simple plate.
how to store Garlic Butter Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven so the butter does not burn. You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Garlic Butter Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness so they cook evenly.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Do not use high heat; medium heat keeps the butter from burning.
- Let the chicken rest 3–5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Taste and add more salt or pepper at the end if needed.
variation (if any)
- Add lemon juice and chopped parsley for a bright finish.
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat; adjust cooking time.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to make a light pan sauce.
- Stir in a little cream for a richer sauce.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or when the juices run clear and there is no pink inside.
Q: Can I use less butter?
A: Yes. You can cut the butter amount in half and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for 5 cloves fresh garlic.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven?
A: Yes. Sear the chicken in a pan, then finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes. Cook and cool the chicken, then store in containers with sides for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Conclusion
For another simple take on garlic butter chicken and tips on a four-ingredient sauce, see Garlic Butter Chicken (4 Ingredient Sauce!).
Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.