The sizzling sound of chicken hitting a hot skillet always makes my heart race with excitement. Just the other night, after a long day filled with endless responsibilities, I craved something comforting yet fresh. To my delight, I found a simple, yet flavor-packed solution: Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce.
Picture this: succulent chicken breasts tenderized to perfection, bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce that brings together the flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and creamy butter. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary evening into a memorable culinary experience. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it hard to believe that this mouthwatering masterpiece can be prepared in just about 30 minutes!
Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is your ticket to reclaiming the joy of home-cooked meals. So dust off that skillet and let’s dive into creating a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also reminds you why homemade food is always the best choice over fast food!
Why is Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute guest arrival.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates an aromatic sauce that elevates your chicken to new heights.
Tender and Juicy: The method of pounding the chicken ensures even cooking, resulting in succulent meat that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes—for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress! Dive into this delightful recipe and enjoy the experience of homemade cooking again!
Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, tenderized for even cooking.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
For the Garlic Herb Sauce
• Minced garlic – Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic kick.
• Low-sodium chicken stock or dry white wine – Use this for deglazing the skillet and adding depth to the sauce; white wine gives a lovely acidity.
• Unsalted butter – The creamy base that envelopes the chicken in luscious flavor; a rich backdrop for the herbs.
• Chopped fresh sage – Brings a savory note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Chopped fresh thyme – This herb adds earthy undertones and enhances the overall flavor spectrum.
• Chopped fresh rosemary – Provides a fragrant finish that complements the garlic perfectly.
Embrace the flavors of Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce, and prepare to indulge in a delightful homemade meal that transforms your kitchen into a culinary haven!
How to Make Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
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Heat Skillet: Start by heating a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. To ensure even cooking, pound the thicker sections of your chicken breasts with the flat side of a meat mallet until they are an even thickness.
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Dry and Season: Dab the chicken dry with paper towels to promote a lovely sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, drizzle the olive oil into the skillet and gently add the chicken.
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Cook Chicken: Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the center reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
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Sauté Garlic and Herbs: Lower the burner temperature slightly, then melt 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and chopped sage, sautéing until the garlic becomes golden brown, which should take about 30 seconds.
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Deglaze Pan: Pour in the chicken stock or dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This step ensures all those delicious flavors get included in your sauce.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Dice the remaining butter into three pieces and add them to the skillet along with the chopped thyme and rosemary. Stir until the butter has fully melted, creating a rich, fragrant sauce.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the aromatic sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to warm in the sauce for a minute before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish warm!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
- Even Thickness: Ensure uniform thickness: Pounding the chicken breasts prevents uneven cooking, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- Sear for Perfection: Don’t rush it: Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for crispy edges; flipping too soon can lead to stickiness and a less attractive appearance.
- Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape the pan well: When adding stock or wine, ensure to scrape up all the browned bits; they carry intense flavor that enhances your sauce.
- Butter Temperature: Melt gently: Lower the heat when adding butter to the sauce to avoid burning; a gentle melt creates a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F; overcooking can lead to dryness and toughness.
Embrace these tips, and your Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce will be a delicious triumph!
Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists on this classic dish!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil for butter and use coconut cream in place of unsalted butter for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
This will give your dish a rich texture while keeping it free of dairy. You’ll still enjoy the vibrant flavors! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic to introduce a warming heat to your sauce.
This simple addition transforms the dish, adding a satisfying layer of spice that takes the flavor up a notch! -
Lemon Zest: Incorporate fresh lemon zest during the cooking process for a bright, zesty flavor profile.
Its uplifting citrus notes enhance the overall freshness of the dish, making it even more inviting! -
Herb Blend: Swap out the thyme and rosemary for oregano and parsley for a Mediterranean twist.
These herbs will bring a different aroma and invite an entirely new taste that’s equally delicious! -
Mushroom Medley: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet after cooking the chicken for a hearty texture and earthy flavor.
They soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite more indulgent and satisfying! -
Honey-glazed: Drizzle a little honey over the chicken right before serving to add a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
This little touch will surprise your taste buds and create a delightful flavor contrast! -
Whole Grain Boost: Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa or farro instead of traditional sides for added texture and heartiness.
Not only will this elevate your dish, but it also infuses extra nutrients for a wholesome meal! -
Nutty Flavor: Consider finishing with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delicious crunch and warmth.
This final touch adds an extra layer of texture that’s simply irresistible!
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic herb sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat the sauce gently to preserve its rich taste when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply cook the marinated chicken and finish by adding your reheated sauce for that same delicious, comforting experience—saving you precious cooking time during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover skillet chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your garlic herb butter sauce!
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, don’t leave the chicken out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the rich, aromatic flavors of this chicken dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of buttery mashed potatoes soaks up the sauce beautifully, creating a heartwarming combination. Their mild flavor allows the chicken’s spices to shine.
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Roasted Asparagus: Bright, crunchy asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted adds a fresh contrast to the savory chicken. Their slight bitterness balances the richness of the butter sauce.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, golden garlic bread is perfect for mopping up leftover sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable. It creates a comforting, hearty element to your meal.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes introduces refreshing flavors and a healthy crunch. This pairing brings a lovely texture that complements the succulence of the chicken.
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Fresh Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans dressed with lemon add brightness and a pop of color to your plate. Their crispness will enhance the dish’s overall freshness.
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Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings a zesty acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken. It’s a refreshing choice that leaves you feeling satisfied yet light.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate mousse to satisfy your sweet tooth. Its luxurious texture and deep flavor will leave a memorable finish to your meal.
Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for chicken breasts that are plump and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or an off smell. Fresh breasts are light in color and have a slight sheen. Organic or free-range options often offer richer flavor and better texture.
What is the best way to store leftover skillet chicken?
Store leftover skillet chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the chicken to room temperature before sealing it in to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap if needed.
Can I freeze this dish, and how?
Yes! To freeze the Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce, allow the chicken to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or an airtight freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air and seal it well. This method preserves it for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my chicken is dry after cooking?
Very! If you find your chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. To restore moisture, reheat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken stock. This will help reintroduce moisture and flavor. Always use a meat thermometer to gauge doneness—165°F is your golden ticket!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the butter and herbs. You can substitute olive oil for butter to make it dairy-free. For gluten-free options, ensure any chicken stock used is gluten-free. If you have pets, refrain from sharing any seasoned chicken as garlic can be harmful to them!
Savor Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Pound thicker sections of chicken breasts for even thickness.
- Dab the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil into the skillet and add chicken.
- Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until cooked through (165°F). Transfer to a plate.
- Lower heat, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in the skillet. Add garlic and sage, sauté until garlic is golden.
- Pour in chicken stock or wine, scraping up browned bits for flavor.
- Add remaining butter, thyme, and rosemary. Stir until melted for a flavorful sauce.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over and warm for a minute. Serve warm.