If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful chicken dinner that feels a little fancy without the fuss, Pan Fried Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce is your answer. Crispy, golden chicken breasts meet a rich, aromatic sauce with garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of white wine. The result is juicy, tender chicken that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even a casual dinner party.
With this recipe, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in just 30 minutes, paired with your favorite sides, and filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic, butter, and herbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes – perfect for busy nights
- Juicy, golden chicken with a rich, flavorful pan sauce
- Easy one-skillet cooking with minimal cleanup
- Family-friendly and elegant enough for guests
- Versatile with wine or chicken broth, and easy to pair with sides
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy, perfect for pan frying
- Salt and pepper – Basic seasoning to bring out the chicken’s natural flavor
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Adds an herby, savory profile
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing chicken to golden perfection
Pan Sauce
- ½ cup white wine – Adds depth and subtle acidity; can substitute chicken broth
- ½ cup chicken broth – Creates a rich, flavorful base for the sauce
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed – Aromatic and savory
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme – Adds freshness and earthy notes
- ½ teaspoon each: basil, oregano, onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor
- ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt – Balances the sauce
- 3–4 tablespoons salted butter – Creates a glossy, rich pan sauce
- Fresh lemon slices – Optional for garnish and bright acidity
How to Make Pan Fried Chicken
Prep the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner slices. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to about ½-inch thickness. Pat dry.
Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in batches and sear for 4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Make the Pan Sauce
Turn off the heat briefly and add the white wine to deglaze the skillet. Return heat to medium.
Add chicken broth, basil, oregano, onion powder, seasoned salt, smashed garlic, and thyme. Simmer gently until the liquid reduces by half.
Finish the Dish
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the butter until melted.
Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the chicken with the pan sauce for 1–2 minutes.
Add fresh lemon slices for garnish or squeeze over the chicken.
Serve
Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, or your favorite vegetable side.
Tips for Success
- Wine choice: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio work best. Non-alcoholic wine is also a great option.
- Butter caution: Don’t overheat after adding butter; it can separate.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Sear in batches for even browning.
- Basting: Spoon the sauce over the chicken to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Recipe Variations
- Creamy White Wine Chicken: Add a splash of cream at the end for a richer sauce.
- Herb Variation: Swap thyme for rosemary or add fresh parsley.
- Spicy Option: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Squeeze additional lemon over the finished dish.
- Mini Chicken Bites: Cut chicken into smaller pieces for appetizers or kid-friendly portions.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed, roasted, or Greek-style potatoes
- Roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
- Simple salad for a lighter meal
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Bone-in or boneless thighs are juicier and flavorful. Adjust cooking time slightly.
Can I skip the wine?
Absolutely. Substitute equal parts chicken broth. The flavor will still be delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce separately, but for best results, sear and finish the dish just before serving.
What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer a few extra minutes to reduce, or add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water for a thicker consistency.
Pan Fried Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
An easy Pan Fried Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful garlic butter pan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pan Sauce
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth (halal option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon each: basil, oregano, onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 3–4 tablespoons salted butter
- Fresh lemon slices, for serving
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth and seasonings (basil, oregano, onion powder, seasoned salt) in a bowl and set aside.
- Slice chicken in half lengthwise, cover with plastic wrap, and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Pat dry.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
- Turn heat off, add white wine (or broth), then chicken broth + seasonings, smashed garlic, and thyme. Simmer until reduced by half.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and chicken back to skillet, basting with sauce for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve with fresh lemon slices and your choice of sides.
Notes
- Use non-alcoholic wine or chicken broth for halal-friendly version.
- Do not overheat butter to avoid separation.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Pan Fried Chicken with Garlic Butter Pan Sauce is a fast, elegant, and comforting dinner that feels like a special occasion on any night. Juicy chicken, golden sear, and a fragrant garlic butter sauce come together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Serve with your favorite sides, drizzle with fresh lemon, and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and unforgettable.
