One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

There’s something truly comforting about a meal that’s easy to make yet packed with rich, savory flavors. That’s exactly what this One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken delivers—a delicious, juicy, and perfectly seasoned dish that’s ready in no time.

I first created this recipe when I was looking for a quick yet elegant meal that didn’t require hours in the kitchen or a sink full of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just need something satisfying after a long day, this dish is the answer.

With the combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken, every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, since it’s made in just one pan, cleanup is effortless. Keep reading to discover how you can make this irresistible chicken dish in under 30 minutes!

Why I Love This Recipe

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A One-Pan Wonder That’s Bursting with Flavor

There are countless chicken recipes out there, but this one stands out because of its simplicity and depth of flavor. The garlic butter sauce gives the chicken a rich, slightly nutty taste with just the right amount of warmth and aroma. The golden-browned crust on the outside locks in all the juices, making every bite tender and delicious.

But the best part? You only need one pan to make it. No need for extra dishes or complicated steps—just a handful of ingredients and a skillet to create a restaurant-worthy dish at home.

This recipe is also extremely versatile. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and it pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for guests, this dish never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients for One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

The Secret to Perfect Flavor

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• Chicken breasts or thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken works best for an even cook. Thighs are juicier, but breasts will give you a leaner option.
• Butter – Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the garlic.
• Olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning while cooking.
• Fresh garlic – The heart of this recipe. Minced garlic infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma.
• Chicken broth – Enhances moisture and flavor, creating a light sauce.
• Lemon juice – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness and enhances the color.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a fresh, herby finish.

These everyday ingredients come together to create a dish that feels gourmet without being complicated.

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the biggest advantages of this dish is how quick and easy it is to prepare.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Around 30 minutes

This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast.

How to Make One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this incredible dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice golden sear.

Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This adds flavor and gives the chicken that deep golden color when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. The goal is to create a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy.

Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the pan—this step adds extra flavor to the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish Cooking

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Substitutions

How to Customize This Recipe

One of the great things about this dish is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions to tailor it to your preference:

• Chicken substitute: Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different take.
• Butter alternative: If you prefer a lighter option, use ghee or extra olive oil instead.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Dairy-free option: Replace butter with vegan butter or more olive oil.

These swaps make it easy to enjoy this dish no matter your dietary needs!

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing the right side dish can elevate this meal even more. Here are three great options:

1. Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.
2. Lemon Herb Rice – A light and flavorful base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A healthy, colorful side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Each of these sides enhances the meal, making it even more satisfying.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make Your Dish Look as Good as It Tastes

A beautifully plated dish is just as important as the flavors. Here’s how to serve One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken in a way that looks restaurant-quality:

1. Use a large white plate or a wooden board – The golden-brown chicken and glossy butter sauce stand out against a neutral background.
2. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken – This enhances both the flavor and visual appeal. A small spoonful of sauce on the side adds a gourmet touch.
3. Garnish generously – Freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan add a pop of color and extra flavor.
4. Slice the chicken before serving – This makes it look elegant and ensures every bite is coated in the sauce.

Pairing with a well-presented side dish, such as lemon herb rice or roasted vegetables, makes the meal even more inviting.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

How to Get the Perfect Flavor and Texture

1. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning – This helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust.
2. Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder – Fresh garlic has a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a proper sear.
4. Add a splash of cream for a richer sauce – If you want a creamy garlic butter sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream before adding the chicken back to the pan.
5. Rest the chicken before slicing – Letting it sit for a few minutes ensures the juices stay inside.

Following these small but important tips will make a huge difference in the final dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid These Pitfalls for the Best Results

1. Skipping the searing step – If you don’t let the chicken brown properly, you’ll miss out on the deep, rich flavor.
2. Using too much butter at once – Butter burns quickly, so always combine it with a little olive oil to prevent this.
3. Not seasoning enough – Chicken needs a generous amount of salt and pepper to enhance its natural taste.
4. Overcooking the garlic – Garlic burns fast! Only sauté it for about 30 seconds before adding liquid.
5. Cutting the chicken immediately – If you slice into it right away, the juices will run out, leaving you with dry meat.

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a perfectly juicy and flavorful dish every time.

How to Store It

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain freshness and flavor.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist.
• Freezer: This dish freezes well! Place the cooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken. Instead, warm it in a pan with a bit of butter or chicken broth.

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this meal later without losing its delicious texture!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs work well, but the cooking time will increase by about 5-7 minutes per side.

2. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with dairy-free margarine or more olive oil for a dairy-free version.

4. What’s the best way to make this dish spicy?

Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a nice kick.

5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken with the seasonings and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

These FAQs help troubleshoot common concerns and make the recipe more flexible for different diets and preferences.

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