Garlic Butter Chicken is the kind of dinner you’ll crave over and over again. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with rich, savory flavor from seared, golden-brown chicken bathed in a silky garlic butter sauce. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this recipe transforms basic chicken into something extraordinary.
Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted veggies, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights and fancy enough to impress dinner guests. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist — and it comes together in under 30 minutes!
???? Ingredients (U.S. Measurements)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
???? Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–7 minutes per side (depending on thickness), until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon garlic butter sauce over the top. Cook another minute to heat through. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken if using. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
???? Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Sugar | 0g |
Nutrition will vary slightly depending on chicken cut and butter quantity.
???? Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Sear in batches if needed to keep the chicken golden and crisp.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or white wine to the butter sauce.
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Meal prep win: This chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Great for slicing over salads or pasta!
???? Chef’s Extra Touch (From Me to You)
Want to elevate the dish even more? Toss in a handful of halved cherry tomatoes or baby spinach during the final simmer for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Or, serve the chicken over creamy garlic mashed potatoes to double down on that buttery goodness.
This also makes a phenomenal sandwich filling — slice the chicken and layer it in a toasted ciabatta bun with melted provolone and sautéed onions. You’re welcome.
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