Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Dinner

Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is a dish that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and for good reason! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery garlic sauce that is simply irresistible. The origins of garlic butter in cooking can be traced back to various cuisines, but it has found a special place in many households, especially in Italian and French cooking. The beauty of this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet lies not only in its incredible flavor but also in its convenience; it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends.

People love this dish for its mouthwatering taste and the way the garlic and butter meld together to create a luscious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. The texture is equally satisfying, with the chicken being juicy and tender, while the sauce adds a silky finish. Whether served over rice, pasta, or with a side of vegetables, this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is sure to impress and become a staple in your meal rotation!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by taking the chicken breasts out of the refrigerator. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps in achieving a nice sear when cooking. 2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. I like to use a good amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the chicken. 3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. 4. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This will create a beautiful golden crust. 5. Flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

6. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This adds incredible flavor to the sauce. 7. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 8. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and paprika. Stir the spices into the garlic butter mixture, allowing them to bloom for about 30 seconds. This step enhances the flavors and aroma of the sauce. 9. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. This will intensify the flavors of the sauce.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

10. Once the sauce has thickened a bit, return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. 11. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb the delicious flavors of the garlic butter sauce. 12. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Serving the Dish

13. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. 14. Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter, and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top. 15. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness. 16. Serve the garlic butter chicken skillet immediately, alongside your favorite sides. I love pairing it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

17. If you want to add more depth to the dish, consider adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet after the garlic has sautéed. Cook them until tender before adding the chicken back in. 18. For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end of the cooking process. This will give the sauce a luxurious texture. 19. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. 20. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can also work beautifully in this

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and fresh herbs creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! For serving suggestions, I love pairing this dish with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delectable garlic butter sauce. You could also serve it alongside a vibrant green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the skillet for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. I encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet a try and make it your own! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation! Cooking is all about sharing joy and deliciousness, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe uniquely yours. Happy cooking! Print