why make this recipe
Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that can easily become a family favorite. The combination of garlic and butter enhances the chicken’s flavor, making it juicy and tender. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and requires minimal ingredients. You can enjoy this meal on its own or serve it with your favorite sides.
how to make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet in the last couple of minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the chicken with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
how to serve Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
You can serve Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken with a variety of sides. It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider adding mashed potatoes or pasta to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
how to store Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Leftover Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or skillet until heated through. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a nice golden brown color.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.
- For an extra flavor boost, add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter while cooking.
variation
If you want to switch things up, you can add vegetables to the skillet, like spinach or cherry tomatoes, during the last few minutes of cooking. This will create a delicious one-pan meal with added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.
2. What can I use instead of butter?
You can use olive oil as a healthier alternative, but it may slightly change the flavor.
3. Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking the seasoned chicken on low for about 4-6 hours, then adding the garlic towards the end to avoid burning.
4. Is it necessary to let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
5. Can I add cheese to this dish?
Absolutely! Sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a delicious touch.

Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet in the last couple of minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the chicken with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.