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Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Breast Recipe Easy Perfect 30-Minute Dinner

garlic butter chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy garlic butter chicken breast recipe that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a rich, buttery garlic flavor perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, patted dry
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes).
  3. Place chicken breasts in the hot pan without crowding. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
  4. Flip the chicken and immediately add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and minced garlic to the pan. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter and garlic over the chicken repeatedly for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley over the chicken. If using, pour in chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Let the liquid reduce slightly and cook for another 2-3 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove pan from heat and squeeze in lemon juice. Stir gently to combine flavors.
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and spoon garlic butter sauce over the top. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Patting chicken dry is essential for a good sear. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. If butter starts to burn, lower heat or add a splash of broth. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter chicken, chicken breast recipe, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, buttery garlic chicken, weeknight dinner