This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is a luxurious, one-pan dish featuring perfectly seared chicken breasts drenched in a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce. Made with simple ingredients like garlic, butter, cream, and chicken broth, this recipe is perfect for a quick, yet elegant dinner. The combination of tender chicken and indulgent sauce makes this skillet meal an instant favorite for any occasion.
1 Knife (for mincing garlic and seasoning chicken)
1 Cutting Board
1 Measuring Cup (for broth and cream)
Ingredients
4Chicken breastsboneless, skinless
2tbspButter
2tbspOlive oil
4clovesGarlicminced
1cupChicken broth
1cupHeavy cream
½cupParmesan cheeseoptional
1tspSaltadjust to taste
½tspBlack pepperadjust to taste
1tspPaprika
1tbspFresh parsleyoptional, for garnish
Instructions
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.Add the remaining butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Chicken Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release the brown bits. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes.Then add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s heated through and coated with the creamy sauce. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Notes
Recipe Notes
Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a richer, more tender cut of meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream. The sauce will be a little thinner but still flavorful.
Add-Ins: Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet for additional flavor and texture.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet with a splash of broth or cream.