Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken has a magical way of transforming a simple weeknight into something truly special. I still remember the first time I tried to recreate my aunt’s famous dish; the aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan was enough to make my mouth water. After a few tries, I finally landed on this version, which delivers that perfectly melt-in-your-mouth garlic butter chicken experience I craved. It’s tender, flavorful, and bathed in the most incredible sauce. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the best garlic butter chicken recipe?”, I’m pretty sure this is it! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• Unbelievable Flavor: It’s packed with that rich, savory garlic butter taste that’s simply divine.
• Super Quick Prep: You can have this ready in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy-ish Option: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients for a gourmet feel without the high cost.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this chicken, making it a reliable family meal.
• Versatile: This easy garlic butter chicken recipe pairs perfectly with almost any side dish.
• Impressive Results: It looks and tastes gourmet, but this easy garlic butter chicken recipe is incredibly simple to master.

Ingredients for Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful meal. The star of the show is the chicken, but the asparagus adds a lovely freshness that balances the rich garlic butter sauce. You’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – this ensures even cooking and quick preparation
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces – for a pop of green and a tender-crisp texture
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – the foundation of our luscious sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that signature garlic flavor
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – adds liquid to create the base for the garlic butter chicken sauce
• 1/4 cup heavy cream – makes the sauce wonderfully creamy and rich
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of fresh herbiness
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a classic savory note
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to enhance all the delicious flavors

How to Make Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

Crafting this incredibly flavorful dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to achieve that coveted juicy garlic butter chicken!

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning builds a great flavor base.
2. Step 2: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook until they are beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes total. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté until it’s wonderfully fragrant, which usually takes about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it can turn bitter.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano. Stir everything together well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. This is the heart of your garlic butter chicken sauce!
5. Step 5: Add the trimmed asparagus pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the asparagus is crisp-tender. You want it tender but still with a slight bite.
6. Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the chicken and asparagus in that luscious, creamy garlic butter sauce. This is where your chicken truly becomes juicy garlic butter chicken!
7. Step 7: Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve your masterpiece immediately and enjoy every bite of this truly irresistible garlic butter chicken.

Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

Want to elevate your chicken game? These insider tips will help you achieve the most amazing results every single time:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust.
• Use fresh garlic! Dried garlic powder just won’t give you that vibrant, pungent flavor needed for this dish.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at each stage, especially the sauce. A little more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider a quick garlic butter chicken marinade for the chicken pieces before cooking.

What’s the secret to perfect Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken?

The magic truly lies in building flavor layers. Searing the chicken first creates a delicious fond in the pan that enriches the sauce. Also, letting the sauce simmer briefly allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For more on building flavor, check out these tips on ingredients like onions.

Can I make Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken by cutting and seasoning it up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce ingredients can also be measured out, but I recommend cooking the dish fresh for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken?

The biggest pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which leads to dryness. Another common mistake is burning the garlic; sauté it gently over medium heat. Lastly, don’t skip searing the chicken – it’s crucial for flavor! Learn more about proper cooking techniques at Serious Eats.

Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

This amazing chicken dish is so versatile! It’s wonderful served over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up that glorious sauce perfectly. For a lighter meal, try it with quinoa or a simple side salad. I also love pairing it with some crusty bread to ensure no drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce goes to waste. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, consider serving your irresistible garlic butter chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives – absolutely delightful!

Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

This flavorful dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

Leftovers of this fantastic chicken are a blessing, especially when you want a quick, delicious meal later in the week. Once your irresistible garlic butter chicken has cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for planning your garlic butter chicken for dinner later in the week. If you want to store it even longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently. You can warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This ensures your chicken remains tender and the sauce stays creamy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken

Why is garlic butter chicken so good?

The magic of this dish lies in the incredible flavor combination. The rich, savory butter paired with pungent garlic creates an irresistible aroma and taste that coats tender chicken beautifully. It’s a classic pairing that’s hard to beat, making it a go-to for so many people looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a fantastic choice for this recipe, often resulting in even more tender and juicy garlic butter chicken. They have a bit more fat, which keeps them moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a few minutes longer to cook through than breasts.

What vegetables pair well with this garlic butter chicken dish?

Besides asparagus, which is wonderful, you can add broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or even some spinach to the sauce. These vegetables cook quickly in the sauce and add extra color and nutrients. For a heartier meal, consider serving your irresistible garlic butter chicken alongside roasted potatoes or a simple pasta dish.

How do I get the garlic butter chicken sauce to be thicker?

If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Whisk this into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute until it thickens. This is a great trick for achieving that perfect, coating consistency for your irresistible garlic butter chicken.

Variations of Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not try some fun twists on this amazing dish? Here are a few ideas to keep your taste buds excited:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic in Step 3 for a little heat.
• Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy, umami-rich addition to your irresistible garlic butter chicken.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Amp up the herbs by adding chopped fresh thyme or rosemary along with the oregano in Step 4. This creates a wonderfully fragrant creamy garlic butter chicken.
• Sheet Pan Simplicity: Toss chicken pieces and asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, then toss with melted butter and lemon juice.

Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken: 5 Secrets

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Carb

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken with tender chicken and vibrant asparagus, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy garlic butter chicken recipe is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until crisp-tender, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your irresistible garlic butter chicken!

Notes

• For a creamier sauce, add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream.
• Adjust lemon juice to your preference.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg