Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, comforting dish that I love making when I want big flavor without a long ingredient list. Juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce feels cozy, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. It’s one of those reliable recipes I can make on busy nights and still feel like I cooked something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s quick, made in one pan, and packed with flavor. The garlic butter sauce is rich but not heavy, and it pairs perfectly with tender chicken. I can serve it with rice, pasta, potatoes, or vegetables, and it always works. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and never boring. Garlic Butter Chicken For Dinner

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Lemon juice
Optional: fresh parsley or thyme

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side.
I remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I melt the butter and add the garlic, cooking until fragrant.
I pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
I let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
I return the chicken to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it.
I simmer everything together for 2–3 minutes, then finish with fresh herbs if I’m using them.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people and takes roughly 25–30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Variations

Sometimes I add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture. I’ve also stirred in a splash of cream for a richer version or added chili flakes when I want heat. If I want a more citrusy flavor, I increase the lemon juice slightly.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out. Garlic Butter Chicken For Dinner

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, I just adjust the cooking time and make sure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature before serving.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

I like chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well when cooked carefully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative or extra olive oil.

What should I serve with garlic butter chicken?

I usually serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables—anything that soaks up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer it fresh, but it reheats well and works for meal prep if stored properly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken is one of those dependable recipes I always come back to because it’s easy, flavorful, and comforting. I love how the rich garlic butter sauce transforms simple chicken into something satisfying and versatile. Whether I’m cooking for family or just making dinner for myself, this dish always delivers warmth and great flavor with minimal effort.

Garlic Butter Chicken

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet / One-pan
Cuisine: American / Comfort

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Description

Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Quick, one-pan, and versatile, it pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, potatoes, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Lemon juice
Optional: fresh parsley or thyme

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Instructions

Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic, cooking until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
Return chicken to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes.
Finish with fresh herbs if using and serve immediately.