Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. Tender chicken breasts are seared to a golden brown and finished in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal.

In a stainless steel frying pan resting on a white marbled surface, four golden-brown, seared chicken breasts are cooking in a rich, oily sauce seasoned with cracked pepper and minced garlic. Three whole chicken breasts show a crispy, browned outer layer with scattered chopped green herbs, while one chicken breast is sliced into thick pieces, revealing the tender white interior. The sauce glistens with small bubbles and flecks of seasoning all around, adding a glossy texture to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness, about 4 average-sized breasts)
1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 cup white wine* or chicken broth (as needed)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more for extra sauce)
1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced, or to taste)
2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pounded chicken breasts and season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook without moving the chicken for 5 minutes until the underside is medium golden. For thicker breasts, sear for 6 to 7 minutes.
Step 2: Flip the chicken and cook the second side for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Avoid disturbing the chicken while it sears.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the skillet using a slotted spatula and set aside to rest on a plate.
Step 4: Deglaze the skillet by adding the white wine or chicken broth. Allow the liquid to bubble and steam for a few seconds to lift the browned bits.
Step 5: Add the butter to the skillet and stir continuously until melted, about 1 minute.
Step 6: Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant—about 1 minute.
Step 7: Turn off the heat. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it to coat evenly.
Step 8: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

Pound the chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking and a tender texture.
Substitute the white wine with low-sodium chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
For extra richness, add an additional tablespoon of butter when melting the garlic.
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish.

Storage

Store leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to loosen it.

How to Serve

This image shows close-up golden brown cooked chicken breasts in a pan. Each chicken breast has a slightly crispy texture on top with visible seasoning such as black pepper and garlic bits. Small green parsley leaves are scattered on top of the chicken, adding a fresh contrast to the warm brown color. The pan holds some light brown cooking juices that glisten around the chicken pieces. The background is a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright feel to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They offer more moisture and flavor but may require slightly longer cooking times. Make sure to adjust searing and cooking times to ensure they are fully cooked.

What if I don’t have 21 Salute seasoning?

You can substitute with your favorite poultry seasoning or a simple mix of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. Adjust the amounts to your taste preferences.