This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple dish that brings lots of flavor! Juicy chicken thighs cook in a rich garlic butter sauce that smells amazing.
You won’t believe how quick it is to whip up! I love how I can serve it with rice or veggies, and my family always asks for seconds. Who knew dinner could be this easy and tasty? 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they can dry out faster.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for control over saltiness. If you’re watching your diet, you could try using a plant-based butter or even olive oil instead for a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a huge flavor punch! If you’re in a pinch, you can use jarred minced garlic, but fresh is always best. Remember that garlic burns quickly, so cook it just until fragrant.
Thyme: Dried thyme works great, but fresh is even better! If you don’t have thyme on hand, you could substitute with Italian seasoning or rosemary for a different twist.
Chicken Broth: Using broth adds depth to the sauce, but white wine brings a lovely acidity. If you’re avoiding alcohol, then stick with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Keep It Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these simple steps, you’ll keep it juicy every time! Start by ensuring the chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This sears it nicely.
- Resist the urge to flip the chicken too early—let it get golden brown on one side first.
- Using a meat thermometer can be super helpful! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing—this keeps the juices locked in.
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and then a little more time making the delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels; this helps it brown better when cooked. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper to your liking. This will really enhance the flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and let it cook without moving it until golden brown on one side, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, flip the chicken over and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Sauté the mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but careful not to let it burn.
4. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes so it can thicken a little.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it. Cook for another minute just to let everything combine. The chicken should be well coated in that delicious sauce. If you want, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy garlic butter chicken with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water until it’s defrosted. Pat it dry before cooking for better browning.
Can I Make This Dish Without Wine or Broth?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine or broth, you can substitute with water, or add a little extra butter and some lemon juice for flavor. Reduce the cooking time slightly if using just water, as it won’t need to simmer as long.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Try serving it over rice, pasta, or with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
