Why Make This Recipe
Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious and quick meal that brings flavor and comfort to your dinner table. With tender chicken breasts cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, yet it tastes restaurant-quality. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
How to Make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
How to Serve Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Serve Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken hot from the skillet. It pairs well with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to add some crunch to your meal. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
How to Store Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
To store leftover Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If freezing, wrap the chicken tightly and store it for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
- Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking and browning.
- For extra flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks.
Variation
You can add vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for a more colorful and nutritious dish. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, though it may affect the flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.