Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce. Seasoned with smoked paprika and Italian herbs, and finished with a touch of lemon juice, it makes a quick and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic in butter: Lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes so it slightly reduces and thickens.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and dried Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth and fully combined.
- Return chicken to skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve the chicken with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
