Garlic Butter Chicken (Easy 15-Minute Skillet Dinner)

Some of the best dinners are the ones that come together fast but taste like you spent all evening in the kitchen. Garlic Butter Chicken is exactly that kind of recipe. In just about 15 minutes, tender chicken breasts are seared until golden, then bathed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce that’s simple, cozy, and incredibly satisfying.

This is the kind of meal that saves busy weeknights, impresses without stress, and fills your kitchen with the irresistible smell of sizzling garlic and butter. Whether you’re cooking for family, making a quick dinner after work, or just craving something comforting and homemade, this easy garlic butter chicken is a go-to recipe you’ll want on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish
• Made in one skillet with simple ingredients
• Tender, juicy chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce
• Family-friendly and easy to pair with many sides
• Perfect for quick dinners or last-minute meals

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sear the chicken and adds light richness.
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded evenly) – Cooks quickly and stays juicy.
• 1 to 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (or 21 Salute seasoning) – Adds balanced herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste) – Brings out all the savory notes.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste) – Adds gentle warmth.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Deglazes the pan and forms the base of the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more for extra sauce) – Creates a rich, glossy garlic butter sauce.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced – The star flavor, aromatic and bold.
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, optional – Adds color and a fresh finish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Prep the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Pat dry and season both sides with poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until a golden crust forms.
Flip and cook the second side for another 5 minutes, or until fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest.

Tip: Don’t move the chicken while it sears. This is how you get that beautiful golden color and juicy interior.

Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

With the skillet still hot, carefully add the chicken broth. It will bubble and steam, lifting all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the butter and stir until melted.
Stir in the garlic and cook about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.

Combine and Serve

Turn off the heat. Return the chicken to the skillet and flip it around in the sauce.
Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over each piece.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Pound chicken evenly so it cooks fast and stays tender.
• Use medium-high heat to get a good sear without drying the chicken.
• Add garlic after butter melts to prevent burning.
• For extra sauce, add another tablespoon of butter or a splash of broth.
• Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt if needed.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Tongs or slotted spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cup

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of cooking cream at the end.
• Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Herb Butter Chicken: Add thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
• Low-Carb Garlic Chicken: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.

Serving Suggestions

• Spoon over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
• Serve with roasted vegetables, green beans, or steamed broccoli.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
• Use leftovers sliced over pasta or tucked into wraps.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and are even juicier. Add 1–2 extra minutes of cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 4 months.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can replace butter with a dairy-free alternative, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Why pound the chicken?
Even thickness ensures quick cooking and prevents dry edges and undercooked centers.

What if my garlic burns?
Lower the heat and add a splash of broth. Burnt garlic tastes bitter, so gentle heat is key.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken proves that simple ingredients can create truly memorable meals. Juicy chicken, golden edges, and a glossy garlic butter sauce come together in minutes, making this recipe perfect for everything from rushed weeknights to cozy family dinners.