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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Easy and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken, made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal!

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter divided
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth or white wine
  • ½ cup heavy cream optional for a creamy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Tongs
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the Chicken:
  4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken breasts in a single layer.
  5. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  6. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  7. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Add the chicken broth or wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  9. (Optional) Stir in the heavy cream for a richer, creamy sauce.
  10. Return the Chicken:
  11. Place the chicken back in the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it. Add fresh parsley and thyme or rosemary if using. Simmer for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
  12. Serve:
  13. Transfer the chicken to plates, drizzle with extra sauce, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.