Quick Easy Dinner Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Quick Easy Dinner Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Bite Kitchen

I love coming home after a long day and whipping up a dinner that's not only quick but also filled with flavor. This Quick Easy Dinner Garlic Butter Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; within just 30 minutes, you can have juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Paired with a refreshing salad or over rice, it’s an effortless way to enjoy a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:25:42.579Z

When I first tried making garlic butter chicken, I was stunned by how the simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. The key is to let the garlic sauté just enough before adding the chicken, allowing its flavor to infuse the butter. The chicken turns beautifully golden and stays moist while cooking, creating a dish that my family now requests frequently.

I enjoy experimenting with herbs, sometimes adding fresh parsley or thyme to enhance the flavors. Not only does this elevate the dish, but it also makes my kitchen smell heavenly. Feel free to serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that elevates the chicken
Quick cooking time without compromising taste
One-pan meal for easy cleanup

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish. To achieve a rich and flavorful sauce, ensure that you're using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced options. Fresh garlic infuses the butter with a vibrant flavor, while pre-minced garlic often has preservatives that can dull its taste. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant and slightly golden, which typically takes 1-2 minutes; this step is crucial for maximizing aroma and depth without burning it.

Don’t rush the melting of the butter. Start with medium heat to allow it to become bubbly without browning immediately. This helps create a luxurious texture for the sauce. As the butter heats, watch for it to clarify before adding the garlic—this ensures it won't burn and will bring out a wonderfully nutty flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they remain juicy and flavorful even with quick cooking methods. If you substitute with chicken breasts, be aware that they can dry out more quickly; consider adjusting the cooking time to 5-6 minutes per side and using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for doneness. This will help you prevent overcooking.

For added richness, you can also opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs, though these will require a longer cooking time. If using these, start them skin-side down in a hot skillet. This will render the fat and add extra flavor. Just remember to ensure they cook for about 8-10 minutes per side and test internally, keeping in mind the unique texture they will impart to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this dish shines on its own, pairing it with a light side salad or over a bed of steamed rice can elevate your meal. The garlic butter sauce can easily be drizzled on the sides or mixed into the rice, creating a cohesive flavor profile throughout the plate. For a complete dinner experience, consider roasting some seasonal veggies like asparagus or zucchini alongside your chicken in the same pan for ease.

If you're looking to vary the recipe, consider adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter for a different aromatic layer. For spice lovers, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be added during the garlic sautéing step to give your dish a kick. Additionally, for a creamy twist, you can stir in a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese just before serving!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your garlic butter chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Garlic and Butter

Once the chicken is cooked, add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter without burning.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the chicken hot, drizzled with the garlic butter sauce.

Enjoy your delicious meal and the delightful aromas that have filled your kitchen.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. If it seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or a bit more butter to reintroduce moisture as it warms up.

For longer storage, consider freezing the garlic butter chicken. Place portions in freezer-safe bags and remove as much air as possible. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn't cooking through while staying golden brown on the outside, you can reduce the heat slightly to allow it to cook evenly without burning. Remember, thicker thighs will take longer, so you may need to adjust cooking time based on their size and thickness.

Another common issue is the butter separating. If it starts to look oily rather than shiny and smooth, it might be because the heat is too high. Lowering it will help emulsify the garlic and butter, avoiding a greasy texture. Stir frequently during this step to keep it well-blended.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of butter, olive oil can be a great substitute for a lighter option. It won't provide the same richness, but it will still support the garlic’s flavor. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative to achieve a similar texture in the sauce without compromising the essence of the dish.

Fresh parsley can be swapped with other herbs like cilantro or basil, depending on your taste preferences. If using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount compared to fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with garlic butter chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Thyme or rosemary are excellent choices to complement the garlic flavor.