A delicious, foolproof chicken recipe for dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights! This easy chicken recipe combines simple pantry staples to create a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Tested and perfected in our test kitchen, I’m excited to share this family-favorite recipe that has earned rave reviews from both home cooks and culinary enthusiasts.

This recipe was born in my culinary school days and refined through countless dinner parties and family gatherings. What makes it special is the blend of classical French butter-basting techniques with modern, time-saving methods. The result? A perfectly seared chicken with a golden, garlicky crust and juicy interior that tastes like it came from a professional kitchen – but can be mastered by any home cook.

Key Recipe Features

• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Uses only 5 simple ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep
• Kid-friendly
• Gluten-free and low-carb
• Restaurant-quality results

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Meat thermometer
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs for flipping

As someone who has prepared this dish countless times, the key to success lies in the quality of your ingredients and proper temperature control. The garlic should be fresh and properly minced, and the butter should be real, unsalted butter for best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Uses only 5 simple ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep
• Kid-friendly
• Gluten-free and low-carb
• Restaurant-quality results

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Ingredients (For 4 Serves)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-7 oz each)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 large garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Directions

• – Prepare the Chicken :
  Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
• – Heat the Pan :
  Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and begin to bubble slightly.
• – Cook the Chicken :
  Add the chicken breasts to the hot pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• – Make the Garlic Butter Sauce :
  Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil. In the same pan, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add Italian seasoning and stir.
• – Finish and Serve :
  Return chicken to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.

Why This Easy Chicken Recipe Works

• The combination of butter and garlic creates a rich, flavorful sauce
• Quick cooking method preserves chicken’s juiciness
• Simple ingredients allow natural flavors to shine
• Versatile recipe that pairs with many side dishes
• Perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan (reduces browning)
• Using cold chicken straight from fridge
• Adding garlic too early (it burns)
• Not patting chicken dry
• Skipping the resting period

Recipe Success Tips

• Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Allow butter to foam before adding chicken
• Baste chicken with sauce while cooking
• Eat it with some side sauces like salsa sauce

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Chicken Temperature Tips

• Always bring chicken to room temperature before cooking
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness
• Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts
• Fresh herbs can replace Italian seasoning
• Ghee or olive oil can substitute for butter

Recipe Variations

• Add lemon juice for a bright citrus version
• Include white wine for a more sophisticated sauce
• Mix in capers and parsley for a piccata-style dish
• Sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving

Storage and Meal Prep

Keep remaining portions fresh in a sealed container, enjoying within three days. Warm carefully in a lidded pan, adding a touch of water or chicken stock to maintain moisture.

Perfect Pairings with Chicken recipe

Serve this garlic butter chicken with:

• Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
• Roasted vegetables
• Fresh green salad
• Crusty bread for sauce-soaking

Nutritional Information for this Chicken Recipe

Per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

FAQ Section

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and reheat gently.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, with only 2g of carbs per serving, it fits perfectly into a keto diet.

Can I freeze this dish?

While best fresh, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.

What’s the best pan to use?

A heavy-bottom stainless steel or cast-iron skillet works best.

Share Your Experience!

Did you try this recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on social media using #EasyChickenDinner and #QuickMealMagic, Don’t forget to save this recipe for later by pinning it to your dinner recipes board!