Name: Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves (minced); ½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for extra flavor); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped (optional, for garnish))

A fast and easy stovetop chicken recipe with tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Servings: 4

Darlin’, there’s something magical about a skillet full of tender chicken sizzling in garlic butter—it’s the smell of dinner success! This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is the definition of simple and satisfying. With a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast, flavorful, and downright irresistible. Pair it with veggies, rice, or a crisp salad, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll impress without the stress.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for extra flavor)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Supplies Needed

Large skillet
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top. Cook for 2 more minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster, more even cooking.
Use a splash of heavy cream in the sauce for a richer texture.
Pair this dish with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.

Variations

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Substitute chicken breasts with bone-in or boneless thighs for a juicier option.

Lemon Herb Garlic Butter

Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an herby twist.

Low-Carb Option

Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

FAQ

Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic provides the best flavor. If using pre-minced, add an extra teaspoon for a stronger garlic punch.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Water with a pinch of salt works, but dry white wine adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil.

Oh, sugar, this Garlic Butter Chicken is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s fast, fuss-free, and packed with flavor so good you’ll want to drizzle that sauce over everything. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep idea, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver. So grab your skillet, y’all, and let’s get cooking—this one’s a keeper!

Sweetheart, this post might have a few affiliate links tucked in. That just means if you click and buy, Mama Bear gets a little commission—just enough to keep the pantry stocked with butter and biscuits. Thank you kindly for your support!