Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken – Easy 30-Minute Dinner Recipe

Name: Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken - Easy 30-Minute Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Posted on July 26, 2025

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The aroma of sizzling garlic in melted butter is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, right? Honestly, when I first made this garlic butter chicken, I had no idea it would become a staple in my dinner rotation. It’s quick, ridiculously flavorful, and has that comforting feel you crave after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish always delivers! You might even find yourself making it twice a week!

I discovered this recipe during a week when I wanted something delicious but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Let’s face it, who has that kind of time? The beauty of this garlic butter chicken is that it comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hit with a last-minute dinner plan. Plus, the buttery garlic sauce is something you’ll want to drizzle over everything!

This recipe is not just about speed; it’s also about flavor. Each bite of tender chicken coated in that rich garlic butter sauce is pure bliss. You’ll want to serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. So, if you’re ready to impress your taste buds and those around you, let’s dive into this garlic butter chicken recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already!
Comfort Food: This dish brings warmth and comfort with every bite, making it a family favorite.
Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown chicken topped with fresh parsley looks stunning on any dinner table.
Deliciously Versatile: Pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete meal that can be customized to your liking.

This garlic butter chicken recipe takes the classic flavors we all love and elevates them in a way that feels gourmet without the fuss. You’ll be amazed at how simple techniques like browning the chicken and creating a rich sauce can transform an average weeknight dinner into something truly special. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary superstar, even if you’re just a home cook. And let’s not forget—the leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness (for uniform cooking)
Salt and pepper, to taste (for seasoning the chicken)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (for that rich, buttery flavor)
4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for flavor)
1 teaspoon paprika, (adds a nice color and depth)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, (for an herbaceous touch)
½ cup chicken broth, (to create a sauce that’s packed with flavor)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and freshness)

Feel free to switch up the herbs if you have a favorite blend or if you want to experiment! Fresh thyme or rosemary would work beautifully here too.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need any fancy equipment for this garlic butter chicken, just some essentials you probably already have:

Large skillet: A good quality non-stick skillet works best for evenly cooking the chicken and creating a nice sauce.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken to an even thickness.
Cooking tongs: For flipping the chicken without losing that lovely sear.
Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken after cooking.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a meat mallet; a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy pan can work just fine. The goal is to get that chicken nice and even for perfect cooking!

Preparation Method

Now let’s get into the fun part—cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your garlic butter chicken:

Prep the Chicken: Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about 1 inch). This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and bubbly, add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
Flip the Chicken: Using tongs, carefully flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the paprika and Italian seasoning.
Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce! Bring it to a simmer.
Return the Chicken: Add the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy this dish with rice, pasta, or a side of veggies!

And there you have it! The entire process takes just about 30 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks to prevent overcooking—it can dry out if left too long!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking garlic butter chicken might seem simple, but here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results:

Don’t crowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming, which can make the chicken less crispy.
Use fresh garlic: For the best flavor, always use fresh garlic instead of jarred or powdered.
Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute—this keeps it juicy!
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly without overdoing it.

And if you’ve ever accidentally burned garlic, you’ll know to keep an eye on it while cooking. It can go from fragrant to burnt in seconds!

Variations & Adaptations

The beauty of this garlic butter chicken recipe is its versatility! Here are a few ways to mix it up:

Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a spicy kick.
Herb Variation: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, adjusting cook time as needed.

Feel free to get creative with the sides, too! Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can complement this dish beautifully.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This garlic butter chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but here are some tips for serving and storing:

Serving Temperature: Serve warm, drizzled with the garlic butter sauce over the top.
Complementary Dishes: Pair it with a side of garlic bread, steamed veggies, or a light salad.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

As the chicken sits, the flavors in the sauce deepen, making leftovers a delicious option!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This garlic butter chicken is not only delicious but also provides some great nutritional benefits:

Protein-Packed: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
Healthy Fats: The butter provides healthy fats that can help with nutrient absorption.
Low-Carb: This dish is low in carbs, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Just keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching calorie intake. It’s easy to enjoy too much of that tasty sauce!

Conclusion

This garlic butter chicken is a must-try for anyone looking for a meal that is quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s a recipe that encourages customization and creativity, allowing you to make it your own. I absolutely love making this dish and serving it to friends and family—the smiles and compliments are always worth it!

So, what are you waiting for? Give this garlic butter chicken a shot, and let your taste buds be the judge! I’d love to hear how you make it your own, so don’t forget to leave a comment or share your version. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before preparing.

What can I substitute for butter?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and store them separately in the fridge until ready to heat and serve.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

What sides go well with garlic butter chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Get creative with your sides!

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