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Garlic Butter Chicken is one of those timeless, comforting dishes that never fails to satisfy. It combines juicy, perfectly seared chicken breasts with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce that tastes like something straight from a restaurant. Best of all, it’s made in one skillet, requires minimal prep, and is ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, family meals, or any time you need a quick yet impressive entrée.

This recipe focuses on bold flavor, simple ingredients, and a foolproof cooking technique that ensures tender, golden chicken every time. Whether you choose white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, the result is a silky sauce with deep savory notes that elevate the entire dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan dinner with easy cleanup
Ready in 20–25 minutes
Juicy, evenly cooked chicken with a golden sear
Rich garlic butter sauce full of flavor
Versatile enough for weeknights or special occasions
Naturally low-carb and high-protein

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Ingredients Breakdown

• Olive Oil – Helps create a perfect sear, prevents sticking, and adds subtle richness.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Pound to even thickness for moist, evenly cooked chicken; four medium breasts work well.
• 21 Salute Seasoning or Poultry Seasoning – A savory herb blend that adds depth and enhances flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential base seasonings that bring everything together.
• White Wine or Chicken Broth – Deglazes the skillet, lifting browned bits for a richer sauce; wine is bolder, broth is milder.
• Butter – Forms the velvety base of the sauce as it melts with garlic and pan drippings.
• Fresh Garlic – Adds bold, aromatic flavor; cook briefly to avoid burning.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the buttery sauce.

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Tips and Tricks

Pound the chicken evenly to avoid undercooked thick spots and dry thin edges.
Avoid touching the chicken while it sears, which allows a golden crust to form.
Use medium-high heat for the perfect sear without burning.
Deglaze immediately after removing the chicken to capture maximum flavor.
Use high-quality butter for the most delicious sauce.
Add extra butter if you prefer a richer, more generous sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Herb Variations

Swap parsley for basil, thyme, rosemary, or chives for different flavor profiles.

Add Heat

Sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to add subtle spiciness.

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end to transform the sauce into a creamy garlic butter reduction.

Lemon Garlic Chicken

Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to brighten the sauce.

Mushroom Garlic Chicken

Sauté sliced mushrooms after removing the chicken and before deglazing, then continue the recipe as directed.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce.
Pair with rice or quinoa for a hearty, balanced meal.
Add steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a fresh vegetable component.
A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the garlic butter.
Complement the dish with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.