Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
To Serve
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to build a flavorful base.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the sauce base: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to let it reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the dried Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional bright, citrusy touch.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or white wine for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the garlic amount based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Serve alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best taste rather than bottled.
