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Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple to make? This 30-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s loaded with fresh herbs and savory goodness.
Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without complicated prep or long cooking times, this recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and one skillet. The result is a beautifully golden chicken with a luscious, aromatic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy
Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Juicy and Flavorful
Butter and garlic infuse the chicken with rich flavor and keep it moist.
Minimal Ingredients
Uses simple pantry staples and fresh herbs for a straightforward cooking experience.
Versatile
Pairs well with a variety of sides – from mashed potatoes to steamed greens.
One-Pan Cleanup
Cook and serve from the same skillet to reduce dishes.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
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5 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme or rosemary
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½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or frying pan
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Tongs or spatula
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Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2 – Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and dried herbs. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4 – Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
Step 5 – Finish the Sauce and Chicken
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce and stir until melted and silky. Return the chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top to coat well. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
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Dry the chicken breasts well before cooking to get a nice sear.
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Use room temperature chicken for even cooking.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
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Adjust garlic amount to taste—add extra if you love garlic!
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For extra flavor, add a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest right before serving.
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Use fresh herbs if possible for the best aroma and taste.
Ingredient Variations & Add-Ons
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Herbs: Swap thyme or rosemary for basil, oregano, or tarragon.
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Add veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes or spinach to the skillet during the last few minutes.
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Creamy option: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk after adding broth for a richer sauce.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
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Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy addition.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken
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Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice
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Steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli
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Light garden salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Garlic bread or crusty rolls
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Bone-in, skin-on thighs will take a bit longer to cook but add extra flavor.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use water with a pinch of salt or vegetable broth as alternatives.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season chicken and prepare sauce components in advance. Cook fresh when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe contains no gluten.
How do I know when chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Final Thoughts
This 30-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a deliciously simple, weeknight-friendly meal that feels luxurious yet requires minimal effort. The tender chicken paired with a rich garlic butter sauce creates a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with countless sides.
Whether you’re craving a quick dinner for yourself or want an impressive yet easy meal for guests, this recipe will become a reliable favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the buttery, garlicky goodness in every bite!
