Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a staple in many kitchens, but they can sometimes turn out dry and bland. With this garlic butter-infused recipe, you’ll achieve juicy, golden-brown chicken loaded with aromatic herbs and rich buttery flavors.
This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
- Flavor-Packed – A delicious blend of garlic, butter, and herbs enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
- Versatile – Pairs well with various side dishes, from salads to pasta.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stays juicy and flavorful even when reheated.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable with different seasonings and add-ons.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe
For this delicious Chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 Medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean source of protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. It provides a tender texture while being a versatile base for various seasonings.
- ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour (or Bread Flour or Cake Flour Substitute) – Helps create a light, golden crust on the chicken while sealing in moisture. It also allows the seasonings to adhere better and slightly thickens the butter sauce.
- ¾ Teaspoon Salt (Adjust to Taste) – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the dish. It also helps retain moisture in the meat.
- ⅓ Teaspoon Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth to the flavor profile, complementing the garlic and herbs.
- ½ Teaspoon Dried Basil – Contributes a slightly sweet, peppery flavor with mild hints of mint, making the dish more aromatic.
- ½ Teaspoon Dried Oregano – Provides a bold, earthy, slightly bitter taste that pairs well with butter and garlic. It also adds a Mediterranean touch.
- ½ Teaspoon Dried Thyme – Infuses a subtle woodsy, slightly lemony note that enhances the overall seasoning blend. It complements poultry beautifully.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (Regular Refined, Not Extra-Virgin) – Used for sautéing due to its higher smoke point, helping to achieve a crispy golden-brown sear on the chicken without burning.
- 3 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Divided) – Adds richness, a silky mouthfeel, and enhances the garlic-herb flavors. Using unsalted butter allows better control over sodium levels.
- 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic, Minced – Brings a robust, slightly spicy, and aromatic depth to the dish. Garlic pairs perfectly with butter, creating a flavorful sauce.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, Chopped – Brightens up the dish with its mild, fresh, and slightly peppery taste. It also enhances presentation by adding a pop of green color.
Optional Add-ons
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle over the cooked chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness to the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
- Mushrooms: Sauté alongside the garlic for an earthy depth.
Tools You’ll Need
- 12-inch non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken
1. Preheat the Pan
Place a 12-inch non-stick skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Let the pan heat up for about 2 minutes. This ensures that when the chicken is added, it sears properly, creating a golden-brown crust instead of steaming.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Take 2 to 3 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board or a clean plate. Using paper towels, gently pat them dry on all sides. This step is essential because removing excess moisture helps the chicken brown better when cooking instead of becoming soggy.
3. Coat the Chicken with Flour and Seasonings
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or bread flour/cake flour substitute)
- ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ⅓ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Mix everything well using a spoon or clean hands so that the seasoning is evenly distributed in the flour.
Next, place the chicken breasts into the bowl, one at a time. Using your hands or tongs, coat each piece thoroughly with the flour mixture. Ensure all sides of the chicken are covered evenly. This coating not only adds flavor but also helps create a slight crust when searing, making the chicken tender inside while crisp outside.
4. Heat the Oil and Butter
In the preheated skillet, add:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (regular refined, not extra-virgin)
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
Allow the butter to melt and combine with the oil, swirling the pan gently to distribute it evenly. The oil raises the smoke point, preventing the butter from burning, while the butter adds rich flavor to the chicken.
5. Sear the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the pan in a single layer, leaving at least an inch of space between them. If the pan is overcrowded, the chicken will steam instead of searing.
Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. You will notice the edges turning slightly opaque as it cooks through.
Using tongs or a spatula, gently flip each piece over and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be nearly cooked through at this point.
6. Add Garlic, Parsley, and Remaining Butter
Once the second side is seared, reduce the heat to medium-low. Scatter the following ingredients around the chicken:
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
- 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
Stir the butter and garlic around the chicken using a spoon, letting it melt and blend into the pan juices. Allow the garlic to cook for about 90 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic can become bitter.
As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the chicken by scooping up the flavorful butter and drizzling it over the top of the meat. This enhances flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken is fully cooked, turn off the heat and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing—this helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
Serve hot, paired with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Boneless Chicken Breasts!
Storage and Serving
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip Drying the Chicken: This helps achieve a crispier exterior.
- Use a Heavy Skillet: Cast iron or non-stick pans work best.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensures even cooking and a good sear.
- Butter at the End: Prevents burning while enhancing flavor.
Substitutes and Variations
- Oil Substitute: Use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- Herb Variations: Swap basil, oregano, and thyme for Italian seasoning.
- Flour Alternative: Use almond flour for a low-carb option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 430mg |
What Others Are Saying About the Recipe
- Steven C. – ‘’I served it with mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus—absolutely perfect. Next time, I might add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.’’
- Hannah J. – ‘’I used chicken thighs instead of breasts, and they turned out super tender. Even my picky eater husband went back for seconds.’’
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead? Yes! Chicken thighs work well and add more juiciness.
2. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? Avoid overcooking and let it rest before slicing.
3. Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Replace butter with vegan butter or additional olive oil.
4. What can I use instead of flour? Try cornstarch or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Boneless Chicken Breast recipe is a simple, foolproof way to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Whether served with sides or sliced over salads, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a household favorite. Try it tonight and savor the deliciousness!