4-Ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying chicken recipe that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients? This 4-ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken is your answer!

This recipe was born out of necessity on a busy weeknight.

With limited ingredients on hand, I whipped up this garlic butter chicken, and it was an instant hit.

Over time, it’s become one of my go-to recipes for a no-fuss dinner that tastes like a gourmet meal.

The simplicity of the ingredients doesn’t compromise on flavor—it’s proof that less is more in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Simple Ingredients: You only need four staple ingredients—chicken breasts, garlic, butter, and parsley—making it easy and affordable.
2. Quick to Prepare: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
4. Delicious Every Time: The rich garlic butter sauce ensures the chicken stays moist and packed with flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Cuisines: American, Mediterranean
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $8

Equipment:

• Large skillet
• Spatula or tongs
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine and Garnish: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken, and cook for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 180mg

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the skillet before making the sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Common Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and are often juicier. Adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce up to a day in advance. Reheat gently in the skillet before serving.

3. What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

More Quick & Easy 4 ingredient chicken recipes –

• Crispy Parmesan Chicken
• 4-Ingredient Creamy Pesto Chicken
• 4-Ingredient BBQ Ranch Chicken
• Lemon Herb Baked Chicken
• 4-Ingredient Honey Garlic Chicken
• 4-Ingredient Buffalo Ranch Chicken

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4-Ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying chicken recipe that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients? This 4-ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken is your answer!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Keyword 4 Ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken, Garlic Butter Chicken

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 280kcal

Cost $8

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
• Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Combine and Garnish: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken, and cook for another 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the skillet before making the sauce for extra depth of flavor.

With this simple yet irresistible recipe, you’re just 25 minutes away from a satisfying meal that’s bound to impress.

Happy cooking and enjoy your 4-ingredient Garlic Butter Chicken!