Garlic Butter Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that is simple to make and packed with flavor. If you're looking for an easy recipe that impresses both in taste and presentation, this is the perfect option for you! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Stick around to the end for some pro tips and FAQs to make this dish even more incredible!

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?
Garlic Butter Chicken is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and tender chicken. With crispy golden skin and juicy meat, it is the ultimate comfort food for any meal. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—minimal ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that’s worthy of any dinner table. The chicken is pan-seared until golden and then smothered in a garlic butter sauce, creating a harmonious blend of savory, buttery goodness with a hint of garlic.
Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Chicken
To make this Garlic Butter Chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are all simple items that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, making it a great recipe for busy weeknights or spontaneous cooking.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use thighs)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth or white wine (for a more flavorful sauce)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional but recommended)
Ingredients List for Optional Additions
For a more flavorful and rich experience, consider adding these ingredients to enhance the dish even further:
- ½ cup heavy cream for a creamy garlic butter sauce
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory touch
- Baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness
- Mushrooms for added umami flavor
- Red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat
Substitutions and Variations
If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to tailor the dish to your preferences, here are some substitutions and variations:
- Chicken thighs or drumsticks: Feel free to swap out the chicken breasts for thighs or drumsticks, as they are just as flavorful and tend to be juicier.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks for a vegetarian twist. You can still follow the same steps for searing and making the garlic butter sauce.
- Herb variations: If you don’t have thyme or parsley, basil, oregano, or rosemary make great alternatives.
- Dairy-free version: Swap out the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter to make the dish dairy-free without losing flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a perfect Garlic Butter Chicken ready in no time.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Ensure both sides of the chicken are coated evenly to guarantee maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The combination of butter and oil helps prevent the butter from burning while ensuring a rich flavor base for your chicken.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it taste bitter.
Step 5: Add Broth (or Wine)
Pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (this is where all the flavor is!). Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with the Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the garlic butter sauce. If you’re adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, this is the time to do so. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
Step 7: Add Fresh Herbs and Lemon Juice
Once the chicken is heated through, sprinkle the thyme and parsley over the top. Squeeze some lemon juice over the dish for a bright, tangy finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep a close eye on your chicken as it cooks. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure your chicken stays juicy.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks very quickly, so it’s essential to keep an eye on it once it hits the pan. Burnt garlic will give the dish a bitter flavor.
- Not letting the sauce reduce: If you don’t allow the sauce to simmer and reduce, it can turn out too thin and watery. Be patient and let it thicken slightly for the perfect consistency.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Garlic Butter Chicken is cooked to perfection, it's time to think about how to serve and present it. Presentation matters, and a beautifully plated dish can elevate your meal to the next level.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken
- On a bed of rice: Garlic Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
- With pasta: Toss some cooked pasta in the remaining garlic butter sauce for an indulgent meal.
- Alongside vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a complete, balanced meal.
- With a fresh salad: If you’re looking for something lighter, pair the chicken with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or thyme on top of the chicken adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges on the side: Lemon slices or wedges around the plate provide a beautiful presentation and allow guests to add extra tang to their liking.
- Serve in the skillet: For a rustic yet elegant look, serve the Garlic Butter Chicken directly from the skillet at the table.
Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat it in the oven at a low temperature before serving.
- Double the sauce: If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the ingredients for the garlic butter sauce so there’s plenty to drizzle over your side dishes.
- Try different proteins: This garlic butter sauce also works well with shrimp, pork chops, or even fish like salmon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well with this recipe. Just keep in mind that bone-in cuts may require additional cooking time.
Q: Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
A: Absolutely. Let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
Q: What sides go best with Garlic Butter Chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, and a variety of roasted or steamed vegetables. A simple side salad also complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?
A: Yes! You can sear the chicken in a skillet and then transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) to finish cooking for about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender chicken, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own personal touches, this dish offers endless possibilities. Be sure to follow the steps carefully, avoid common mistakes, and get creative with serving and presentation for a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Now that you know how to make it, it's time to get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garlic butter chicken is a quick, flavorful recipe featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It's a simple yet delicious dish that can be made in just a few steps, perfect for any night of the week. Packed with flavor, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers a mouthwatering experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Butter
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet and coat with the garlic butter sauce. Cook for a few more minutes until fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- For added flavor, squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
- This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
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