This easy garlic butter chicken dinner is a real winner! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a heavenly garlic butter sauce that makes every bite so tasty. It’s quick to make too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, use thighs instead; they’re juicy and flavorful.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for controlling the saltiness of the dish. If you’re watching your saturated fats, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works. Use about 1 teaspoon of powder for each clove. Just remember to add it with the broth.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just as well. For a lighter option, use low-sodium chicken broth. Vegetable broth is a good substitute for a vegetarian option.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts to the right doneness can be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure they stay juicy and tender:
- Start by patting the chicken dry; this helps them sear nicely in the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed. This ensures even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it’s cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This garlic butter chicken dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes. You can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. This allows for flavorful meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, making sure it gets fragrant but doesn’t burn.
4. Create the Sauce Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to free any yummy bits stuck there. Let the mixture simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Next, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the sauce, mixing until it melts and becomes smooth.
6. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them well in the garlic butter sauce. Warm them through for another 2 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for added color and flavor. Serve this delicious garlic butter chicken with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy your easy garlic butter chicken dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first! Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it lighter, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture. Additionally, swap half of the butter for olive oil. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce sodium levels without compromising flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove before adding the chicken. Cooked chicken can also be refrigerated and will last for up to 3 days.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works as a great substitute while keeping it vegetarian. You could also use water mixed with a bit of soy sauce or bouillon for added flavor.
