Garlic Butter Chicken
This garlic butter chicken recipe transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. The chicken stays incredibly tender and juicy, while the garlic butter sauce adds rich, aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and fresh thyme, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over each piece, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Pound chicken to even thickness to prevent overcooking. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it moist.