Garlic and Butter Chicken
This garlic and butter chicken recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with just four simple ingredients, maximizing flavor and minimizing effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2 pounds) Can be replaced with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- 8 tablespoons butter, preferably unsalted Use ghee or olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced (about 3 tablespoons) Fresh garlic is preferred over garlic powder.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend Can be replaced with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Be generous with seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Let rest for 15 minutes.
Preparation of Garlic
- Minced the garlic while the chicken rests. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes to activate allicin.
Cooking the Chicken
- Melt half the butter (4 tablespoons) in a skillet over medium heat until it foams.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken, add the remaining butter, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes.
- Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Adding Garlic and Seasonings
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Resting and Serving
- Remove the pan from heat, let the chicken rest in the pan for 3-5 minutes, and then serve with the garlic butter sauce.
Notes
For a lighter version, reduce butter and add vegetables. Allow chicken to rest and store leftovers properly to maintain flavor.