Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is a fast, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that delivers bold taste with minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete and satisfying dinner.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighsbuttergarlic (minced)olive oilsaltblack pepperpaprikaparley or thyme (fresh or dried)lemon juice (optional for brightness)chicken broth or water (optional for extra sauce)

directions

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave whole, depending on preference.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side (or until golden and cooked through). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic.

Sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t burn it).

Optional: Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan and create a bit more sauce.

Return chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in garlic butter, and cook for 1-2 more minutes.

Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

Include mushrooms or spinach for a one-pan veggie boost.

Use Italian seasoning or rosemary for a different herb profile.

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu.

Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time and ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! The mild garlic butter flavor is widely loved.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh for the crispiest texture.

What type of pan works best?

A heavy skillet like cast iron works great for even browning.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely—just increase butter, garlic, and broth quantities accordingly.

Is lemon juice necessary?

Not at all, but it adds a nice brightness to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Chicken is your go-to recipe for when you want something fast, delicious, and satisfying. With juicy chicken coated in buttery garlic goodness, it’s a no-fail dinner that feels comforting yet elegant—all in under 30 minutes.

Print