If you are searching for a dish that combines rich flavors with comforting creaminess, this Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender chicken seared to perfection, enveloped in a decadently buttery and garlicky sauce that is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave something that feels special yet comes together easily. Each bite delivers a burst of savory garlic, buttery goodness, and a hint of fresh herbs that will undoubtedly satisfy your dinner cravings and make you a kitchen hero among your friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding richness, aromatics, or color to give you that perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Thighs offer a rich, juicy flavor while breasts bring a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Adds just the right touch of heat and depth.
- 4 cloves Garlic (freshly minced): The heart and soul of this dish, delivering bold and fragrant aroma.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Creates that luscious, creamy sauce base that makes this recipe so indulgent.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Perfect for searing your chicken to a golden, crispy crust.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth: Low-sodium is best here to build a flavorful yet clean sauce.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: For a silky, rich finish that coats the chicken like a dream.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Chives: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (optional): Brings a subtle smoky warmth, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.
How to Make Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat Your Skillet and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is ready to sizzle. Meanwhile, season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the exterior turns a gorgeous golden brown. This stage locks in juices and builds a beautiful crust that adds texture and flavor.
Step 2: Infuse Butter and Garlic Magic
After searing, lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Let it melt slowly—this is the foundation for your sauce’s indulgence. Once melted, add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering garlicky goodness that hints at the delicious meal to come.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan with Chicken Broth
Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom—these bits are pure gold and will enrich your sauce. Let the broth simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly while intensifying the flavors.
Step 4: Create a Creamy Dream Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, letting it mingle with the broth and butter to form a silky, rich sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes so it thickens just enough to coat your chicken perfectly. This creamy stage is where your Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe really shines.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking
Carefully nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Keep the heat low and let it simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This gentle finish ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top. This final touch brings a fresh and vibrant pop of color to your dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
How to Serve Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds an inviting burst of greenery that balances the rich sauce. You can also add a light sprinkle of paprika for some added color and a subtle smoky note that complements the buttery garlic flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet chicken pairs effortlessly with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a lighter contrast, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add a delightful crunch and freshness to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the chicken atop a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta. You can also spoon the sauce generously over roasted vegetables to create a vibrant and elegant presentation. Consider a rustic touch by serving directly in the skillet at the table—comfort food never looked so inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cool the skillet completely before storing to preserve the creaminess of the sauce and the juiciness of the chicken.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. To maintain the sauce’s texture, it’s best to consume frozen chicken within one month. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or broth can revive the sauce’s luxurious consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just be sure to do it in short intervals to avoid overcooking the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner cut. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out quicker than thighs. Using thighs will give you a richer, juicier result.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the sauce?
The heavy cream is key to achieving that signature indulgent and velvety texture of the sauce. You could try substituting with half-and-half or coconut cream for different results, but heavy cream gives the best luxurious finish.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth doesn’t contain any gluten-derived additives. Always double-check the label to be sure.
What should I serve with the Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe?
Classic comfort sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta are perfect companions. For a lighter option, roasted or steamed vegetables complement the richness wonderfully.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it seems too runny?
If your sauce needs thickening, just simmer it a little longer uncovered to reduce liquid. Alternatively, whisk a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water and add it gradually until your desired thickness is achieved.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about this Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe that it quickly becomes a staple in my kitchen. The combination of golden seared chicken and a rich, garlicky cream sauce is pure magic, especially when you want to impress without fuss. Give it a go—you won’t regret bringing this warm, flavorful dish into your dinner rotation!
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Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent garlic butter chicken skillet recipe offers a rich and creamy dinner option using boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Sear the chicken to golden perfection, then simmer it in a luscious garlic butter sauce enhanced with chicken broth and heavy cream. Fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color and brightness to balance the creamy sauce, making this an easy, flavorful meal for any night.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts (Thighs provide rich flavor; breasts offer a leaner option)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic (freshly minced)
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or Chives (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, preparing the pan for searing the chicken.
- Season and sear the chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a nice crust.
- Add butter and garlic: Lower the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to concentrate flavor.
- Add heavy cream and paprika: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and sprinkle in paprika if using. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the pieces. Simmer everything together for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for freshness and color. Serve the garlic butter chicken hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be careful to avoid overcooking.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried but reduce the quantity to about 1 teaspoon.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Ensure garlic is sautéed only until fragrant to prevent bitterness.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level in the dish.
