Servings: 2-4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and subtle smokiness)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, balances flavors)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- If the breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and dried oregano/thyme.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons butter to the pan.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in red pepper flakes (if using), chicken broth (or white wine), lemon juice, and honey.
- Simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
- Combine & Serve:
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it.
- Let it warm for another 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken:
✔ Use thin chicken breasts for even cooking. If they’re thick, pound them to an even thickness.
✔ Don’t overcook! Remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
✔ Deglaze with white wine instead of chicken broth for an elevated taste.
✔ Add parmesan cheese at the end for extra richness.
