Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
If you’re a busy parent like me, always racing against the clock to get dinner on the table, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is about to become your new best friend. It’s super simple to whip up in just about 30 minutes, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, making it ideal for those chaotic weeknights. Plus, the flavors are so rich and satisfying that it’ll feel like you spent hours cooking, even though it takes almost no time at all!
This recipe combines lean chicken breasts with a creamy garlic sauce that’s packed with health boosts, like antioxidants from the garlic that help keep your immune system strong. It’s not just indulgent; it’s smart too, since you can tweak it to fit different diets without losing that comforting taste. I’ve made it countless times for my family, and it’s always a hit because it’s versatile enough to pair with whatever sides you have on hand.
One of the best parts is how adaptable it is you can easily swap in options for gluten-free or low-calorie versions, which makes it perfect for feeding everyone from picky kids to health-conscious adults. This dish really delivers on flavor, with that buttery garlic sauce coating every bite of tender chicken, and it’s something you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be your go-to for quick, delicious meals that bring the family together.
To learn more about similar easy chicken dishes, check out our recipe for roasted red pepper and spinach stuffed chicken for another flavorful option.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- 5. Mastering Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- 8. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
Let’s talk about what makes this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet so amazing it’s all in the ingredients! I always start with fresh, simple items that pack a punch of flavor without overwhelming your shopping list. Below, I’ve listed everything you need, broken down by category for easy reference. Remember, using the right measurements is key to getting that perfect balance of creamy goodness and savory chicken.
Ingredients for the Chicken
- 4 thin-cut boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 regular breasts cut in half)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1 small yellow onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 head garlic, peeled with clove ends cut off
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For special tweaks, if you’re going vegan, swap the chicken for firm tofu, use vegan butter, and opt for plant-based cream. It keeps things just as tasty! I’ve tried these swaps myself, and they work wonders for dietary needs.
How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part actually making this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet! I promise it’s straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. First off, gather your ingredients and get everything prepped; this step makes the whole process smoother and keeps dinner on schedule. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, especially on those busy evenings.
Start by mixing your dry ingredients: Combine 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a shallow bowl. Coat your 4 thin-cut boneless skinless chicken breasts in this mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid a heavy coating.
Heat ¼ cup olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until it’s golden and fully cooked. Once done, set the chicken aside but keep those flavorful pan drippings for the sauce that’s where the magic happens!
Next, toss in 1 small yellow onion, chopped, and cook until it’s translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 head of garlic, with cloves peeled and ends cut off, and sauté until soft and fragrant. To deglaze, pour in a bit of the 1 ¼ cups chicken broth, scraping up those browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
Then, add the remaining chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, return the chicken to the skillet, and cook for another 2 minutes, spooning sauce over the top. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve it up hot.
| Preparation Step | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
Sometimes, you need to tweak recipes to fit your lifestyle, and that’s totally okay with this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet! I love how flexible it is swap out proteins or ingredients to make it work for vegan friends or anyone watching their calories. For instance, if chicken isn’t your thing, try firm tofu or seitan instead; it’s just as hearty and absorbs all that garlic flavor beautifully.
- Replace chicken breasts with firm tofu or seitan for a vegan version
- Use turkey breast as a leaner alternative
- Opt for firm white fish or shrimp if you’re a pescatarian
- Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream to keep it dairy-free
- Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color
- Make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free, and use fresh herbs like thyme or basil to mix up the tastes
These changes keep the dish delicious while making it accessible for everyone at the table. I’ve experimented with them myself, and they never disappoint.
Remember, cooking is all about making it your own don’t be afraid to play around with these substitutions to create something amazing!
Mastering Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you’ve got the basics down, let’s level up your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with some pro tips that I swear by. For that perfect sear, make sure your skillet is nice and hot, and pat the chicken dry first it helps get a crispy crust without sticking. Always use a meat thermometer to hit that ideal 165°F internal temperature for juicy results every time.
Flavor Boosts and Creative Twists
Want to add some excitement? Try sprinkling in smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy edge, or swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano to amp up the sharpness. A little lemon juice at the end brightens everything up and makes the dish feel fresh. For more ideas on flavorful chicken meals, check out our creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe for another easy twist.
When it comes to presentation, top your skillet with fresh parsley or chives and a bit more Parmesan it looks as good as it tastes. If you’re prepping ahead, make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge; just reheat and add fresh chicken when you’re ready to eat.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet: Best Practices
Leftovers are a win with this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, but storing them right keeps everything tasty and safe. First, let the dish cool to room temperature before popping it in the fridge to avoid any bacterial growth. Store it in an airtight container, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days perfect for lunch the next day!
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, separating chicken from sauce if possible
- Reheat on low heat or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of broth to keep the sauce smooth
- Batch cook and label portions for easy meal prep throughout the week
These steps help maintain that creamy texture and flavor, so you can enjoy it just as much the second time around.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
How do I make the chicken tender and juicy in a creamy garlic butter chicken skillet?
To keep chicken tender and juicy, start by pounding the breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Sear the chicken on medium-high heat in butter to develop a golden crust without overcooking. Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adding the creamy garlic butter sauce after searing helps lock in moisture and adds flavor, preventing the meat from drying out.
What type of garlic is best for making garlic butter chicken?
Fresh garlic cloves are best for garlic butter chicken because they provide a robust, aromatic flavor. Mince or finely chop the garlic so it infuses evenly into the butter sauce. Avoid using pre-minced or powdered garlic, as they can lack freshness and depth, which might affect the sauce’s richness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this skillet recipe?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a moister, more flavorful dish. Thighs have more fat and remain juicy during cooking. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs usually take longer to reach a safe internal temperature. Sear until golden, then simmer in the creamy garlic butter sauce to finish cooking evenly.
How do I prevent the garlic butter sauce from separating when cooking?
To prevent separation, avoid cooking the sauce over very high heat. Melt the butter gently and sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to avoid burning. When adding cream or milk, keep the heat moderate and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch can help stabilize the sauce and maintain a smooth texture.
What sides pair well with creamy garlic butter chicken skillet?
This rich chicken dish pairs well with simple, light sides to balance the flavors. Serve with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Rice or buttered noodles also complement the creamy sauce and help soak up any extra flavor on the plate.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
🍗 This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner packed with rich flavors and tender chicken.
🧄 The creamy garlic sauce enhances the dish, making it an easy crowd-pleaser that elevates any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
– 4 thin-cut boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 regular breasts cut in half)
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small yellow onion, peeled and chopped
– 1 head garlic, peeled with clove ends cut off
– 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1-Start by mixing your dry ingredients: Combine 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a shallow bowl. Coat your 4 thin-cut boneless skinless chicken breasts in this mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid a heavy coating.
2-Heat ¼ cup olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until it’s golden and fully cooked. Once done, set the chicken aside but keep those flavorful pan drippings for the sauce that’s where the magic happens!
3-Next, toss in 1 small yellow onion, chopped, and cook until it’s translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 head of garlic, with cloves peeled and ends cut off, and sauté until soft and fragrant. To deglaze, pour in a bit of the 1 ¼ cups chicken broth, scraping up those browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
4-Then, add the remaining chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, return the chicken to the skillet, and cook for another 2 minutes, spooning sauce over the top. Finally, garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve it up hot.
Notes
🧄 Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the sauce.
🥘 Let the sauce thicken properly to get a rich, creamy texture.
🌿 Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Keywords: Garlic butter chicken, Creamy chicken skillet, Quick chicken dinner, Garlic Parmesan chicken