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Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes? 🍽️ This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet recipe is your ultimate weeknight solution. Juicy chicken thighs cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with fresh herbs and spices, make this one-pan dish irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day, prepping for a family dinner, or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Not only is it fast, but it’s also visually stunning, making it a perfect candidate for your Pinterest board. Imagine a skillet sizzling with golden-brown chicken, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs—a dish that’s as photogenic as it is tasty.
This guide will walk you through every step, offer helpful tips for perfect results, and even suggest side dishes that complement this meal beautifully. By the end, you’ll be confident making a restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet at home in just 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
- Super Quick: Prep and cook in 20 minutes without skipping steps.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Juicy & Flavorful: Butter and garlic lock in moisture, creating a golden crust.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or a splash of cream for variety.
- Pinterest-Worthy: Beautiful presentation that’s ready for photos and sharing.
What makes this recipe a must-try is its balance of speed, flavor, and simplicity. You don’t need complex techniques or long marinating times to create a meal that tastes gourmet. With just a few pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can whip up a dinner that’s satisfying and healthy. 🥗
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in; skin-on adds extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, chives, or lemon zest
Ingredient Prep Tips
- Pat the chicken dry to ensure a crispy sear.
- Mince garlic just before cooking for maximum aroma.
- Bring butter to room temperature to melt evenly.
- Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a fresh, bright flavor.
These simple ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both rich and aromatic, perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Proper seasoning is crucial—it enhances the natural flavors and ensures a beautiful golden crust during searing.
2. Heat the Skillet
Use a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Once sizzling, place the chicken thighs skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. The goal is a crispy exterior with a juicy interior.
Tip: Avoid moving the chicken too soon; let it develop a crust naturally.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs
Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and thyme. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant—burning the garlic will make it bitter. The aroma should fill your kitchen, signaling that your dish is on the right track.
4. Finish Cooking in Butter
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and spoon it over the chicken. Cover the skillet and cook for another 3–4 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook fully while remaining moist and tender. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer: it should read 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: Basting the chicken with butter during this stage maximizes flavor and keeps it juicy.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives for color and flavor. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look, or plate individually. Pair with sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
Optional Variations for Extra Flavor
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
- Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream after basting with butter.
- Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- This creates a rich, indulgent sauce that clings to every piece of chicken.
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken
- Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic.
- Adjust to taste for mild or medium heat.
- This variation adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the buttery flavor.
Herb-Infused Skillet
- Mix in rosemary or oregano with thyme for a different herb profile.
- Lemon zest adds freshness and balances the richness of butter.
These variations let you personalize the dish while keeping total cooking time under 20 minutes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Use a skillet over low heat to preserve juiciness, or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Freezing: Fully cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pro tip: Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep. Simply reheat in a skillet with a pat of butter for fresh-tasting chicken anytime.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Add sautéed green beans or asparagus for a healthy, colorful plate.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete, protein-packed meal.
- Garnish with lemon wedges for a zesty, fresh finish.
These simple additions transform a quick weeknight dish into a balanced, visually appealing dinner.
Why This Recipe Works in 20 Minutes
- Minimal prep: Chicken is seasoned quickly, with no long marination.
- One-pan cooking: Searing and finishing in the same skillet saves time.
- Basting technique: Cooking in butter while covered accelerates cooking and locks moisture.
- Simple sides: Pair with quick-cooking vegetables or pre-cooked grains to stay within 20 minutes.
Following these steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home without stress.
Call-to-Action
If you loved this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet recipe, be sure to pin it to your Pinterest board and share it with friends or family who are looking for a fast and flavorful dinner. This one-pan, 20-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or an easy date-night dinner at home.
PrintButter Chicken Skillet
This Butter Chicken Skillet is a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, warm spices, and a rich tomato-butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with naan or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
– 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– ½ tsp turmeric
– ½ tsp chili powder
– 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until softened and golden.
3. Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
5. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Pour in heavy cream and simmer another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and sauce is creamy.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
For extra depth of flavor, marinate chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.