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Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

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Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Just the name alone conjures up images of juicy, golden-brown chicken bathed in a rich, savory sauce, doesn’t it? This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavor explosion in a single pan, ready to grace your table in under 30 minutes. Forget complicated dinners and endless cleanup – this is weeknight perfection at its finest!

While the exact origins of Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet recipes are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of garlic and butter has been a culinary love affair for centuries, spanning across various cultures. From classic French cuisine to Italian-American comfort food, the simple yet powerful pairing elevates almost any dish. This particular skillet version, with its emphasis on speed and ease, is a modern adaptation that caters to our busy lifestyles.

So, why is this dish so universally loved? It’s simple: the taste is irresistible. The garlic butter sauce, infused with herbs and spices, creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The skillet method ensures that the chicken remains incredibly moist, while the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Plus, the one-pan cleanup is a major win! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience a culinary delight that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make!

Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet this RECIPE

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken:
    • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
    • 8 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup chicken broth
    • 1/4 cup heavy cream
    • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-ins:
    • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
    • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

  1. First, let’s get our chicken ready! Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. I like to use my hands to really massage the spices in.
  3. Set the chicken aside for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can even marinate it in the refrigerator for up to an hour for even more flavor!

Cooking the Chicken:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. I prefer to use a cast-iron skillet because it distributes heat evenly and gives the chicken a beautiful sear, but any large skillet will work.
  2. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
  3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add it back in later.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  1. Now for the star of the show – the garlic butter sauce! In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out – those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Keep stirring it constantly.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the delicious flavor is hiding!
  4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.

Adding Optional Vegetables (Highly Recommended!):

  1. If you’re using vegetables, now is the time to add them to the skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes to the garlic butter sauce.
  2. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
  3. If you want your vegetables to be softer, you can cook them for a longer period of time. Just keep an eye on them to prevent them from burning.

Bringing it All Together:

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and vegetables (if using).
  2. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
  3. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

  1. Serve the garlic butter chicken skillet immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. The sauce is absolutely divine with any of these!
  2. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired.
  3. A side of crusty bread is also a great addition for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
  4. Enjoy! This dish is best served hot and fresh.

Tips and Variations:

  • Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
  • Add cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese over the chicken skillet during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
  • Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, zucchini, or spinach.
  • Make it creamy: For an even creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.
  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and the sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this dish.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor profile.
  • Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and chewy addition.

Detailed Notes on Ingredients:

  • Chicken Breasts: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. However, you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the amount of salt in the dish. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of salt you add to the sauce.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor. Avoid using jarred minced garlic, as it often lacks the same intensity.
  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is preferred to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner.
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish. Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the sauce and adds a touch of acidity.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat to the dish. Omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper, smokier flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its flavor and health benefits.

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Cook it just until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help keep it moist.
  • Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a longer period of time to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce to thicken it quickly.
  • Sauce is too thick: Add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin the sauce.
  • Garlic is burnt: Be careful not to burn the garlic. Cook it over medium heat and stir constantly. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low.
  • Dish is too

    Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

    Conclusion:

    This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort and ingredients. The juicy, tender chicken bathed in that rich, garlicky, buttery sauce is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, and trust me, you’ll be happy to oblige!

    But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve outlined my favorite way to prepare it, feel free to get creative and make it your own.

    Serving Suggestions and Variations:

    * Over Pasta: Toss the cooked chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta – linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese and chopped parsley will elevate it even further.
    * With Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option. The sauce soaks into the grains, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.
    * Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Roast some broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts and serve them alongside the chicken for a complete and balanced dinner.
    * In a Sandwich or Wrap: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of mayonnaise for a quick and easy lunch.
    * Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
    * Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an even richer and creamier sauce.
    * Add Vegetables to the Skillet: Sauté some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in the skillet before adding the chicken for a more complete one-pan meal.

    I’ve made this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet countless times, and each time it’s a hit. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

    I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to customize to your own preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own unique version.

    So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? Did you add any special ingredients? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what you create with this amazing Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet recipe. Happy cooking!

    Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

    Tender chicken cubes simmered in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

    Save This Recipe
    Prep Time15 minutes
    Cook Time25 minutes
    Total Time40
    Yield4-6 servings
    👨‍🍳By: Lily
    📂Category: Dinner
    📊Difficulty: Easy
    🌍Cuisine: American
    🍽️Yield: 4-6 servings
    🥗Dietary: Vegetarian

    Ingredients

    Instructions

    Recipe Notes

    • Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
    • Add cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese over the chicken skillet during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
    • Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, zucchini, or spinach.
    • Make it creamy: For an even creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.
    • Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and the sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve.
    • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
    • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this dish.
    • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor profile.
    • Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
    • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and chewy addition.
    • Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Cook it just until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help keep it moist.
    • Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a longer period of time to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce to thicken it quickly.
    • Sauce is too thick: Add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin the sauce.
    • Garlic is burnt: Be careful not to burn the garlic. Cook it over medium heat and stir constantly. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    → How do I ensure the bread stays moist?
    Use fresh, ripe ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container.
    → Can I substitute ingredients?
    Yes, you can substitute similar ingredients while maintaining the basic ratios for best results.
    → How long does this bread keep?
    Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
    → What if I don't have all the spices?
    You can adjust spices to taste or substitute with similar warming spices.
    → Can I freeze this bread?
    Yes, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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