Save My roommate walked in while I was mincing garlic and asked if I was making that butter chicken again. I hadnt even started cooking yet, but she could smell what was coming. This recipe has that kind of presence in the kitchen.
I made these for a Friday night dinner with friends once, and honestly, the conversation died down when everyone took their first bite. Thats when you know a recipe is a keeper.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay juicier but breasts work if thats what you have, just dont overcook them
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season generously here since the sauce is light and the chicken needs to stand on its own
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked makes a noticeable difference in the final dish
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a subtle depth that people notice but cant quite place
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Use something with a neutral flavor so it doesnt compete with the butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Unsalted lets you control the seasoning, and you really do need the full amount
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced: Dont use pre-minced garlic here, fresh is non-negotiable for this sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, but that tiny heat makes everything else pop more
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Low-sodium matters because the sauce reduces and concentrates
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Cut the lemon right before you need it, bottled juice falls flat here
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Mostly for color, but it does add a nice fresh finish to cut through the richness
Instructions
- Get the chicken ready:
- Pat those pieces completely dry with paper towels, then toss them with the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until theyre evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat your olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken in one layer, and let it develop a golden crust for about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Start the garlic butter base:
- Move the chicken to a plate, turn the heat down to medium, melt the butter, and stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes for just one minute until you can really smell the garlic.
- Build the sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, let it bubble for 2 to 3 minutes while you scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring it together:
- Slide the chicken back into the skillet, toss it until every piece is coated in that buttery sauce, and give it another minute or two to heat through completely.
- Finish and serve:
- Scatter the parsley over the top and get it to the table while the sauce is still glossy and hot.
Pin it This became my go-to when someone says come over for dinner tonight and I have zero time to plan anything elaborate but still want to serve something impressive.
What To Serve With It
Steamed rice soaks up that sauce perfectly, but mashed potatoes work just as well if youre craving something more comforting. Roasted vegetables add some brightness and texture to balance out the richness.
Making It Your Own
A splash of white wine in the sauce adds depth and makes it feel a little more dinner-party special. You can also swap in shrimp for the chicken if you want a seafood version, just adjust the cooking time so they dont overcook.
Timing And Prep
Mise en place actually matters here because everything moves fast once you start cooking. Have your garlic minced, lemon squeezed, and ingredients measured before you turn on the stove.
- Pat the chicken dry while the skillet heats up to save a few minutes
- Room temperature butter melts more evenly, so take it out of the fridge early
- Keep the parsley chopped and ready so you can finish the dish the moment its done
Pin it Somehow a recipe this simple ends up feeling like something youd order at a restaurant, and the best part is it comes together in under half an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces work well for even cooking and tenderness.
- → Can I substitute butter in the sauce?
Butter is essential for the rich garlic sauce, but you can try ghee or a plant-based alternative for similar flavor and consistency.
- → How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté garlic over medium heat for a short time until fragrant to avoid bitterness and burning.
- → Is it possible to add some heat to this dish?
Yes, incorporating red pepper flakes in the sauce adds a subtle spicy kick without overpowering the flavors.
- → What are good side dishes to serve alongside?
Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables complement the rich garlic butter chicken perfectly.