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Looking for a delicious and easy dinner? You’re in the right place! My Garlic Herb Butter Chicken is packed with flavor and simple to make. With just a few fresh ingredients like garlic, herbs, and butter, you’ll create a dish that impresses everyone at the table. Join me as I guide you through the steps to perfect this meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Herb Butter: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates a rich and aromatic butter that elevates the chicken to a new level of deliciousness.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Moist and Tender Chicken: The method of resting the chicken in its juices ensures that each bite is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and is also great for meal prep, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Serving Suggestions
– Lemon wedges
– Additional herbs for garnish
The main ingredients for this dish include chicken breasts, butter, and fresh herbs. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy. The unsalted butter gives a rich flavor, while the garlic adds a nice kick.
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary brighten the dish. You can chop them finely to mix easily into the butter. This mix creates a lovely herb butter that coats the chicken.
For seasoning, lemon zest brings a fresh twist. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes. They are optional but add a bit of warmth.
To serve, I suggest lemon wedges. They add brightness and flavor when squeezed on the chicken. You can also sprinkle extra herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Herb Butter
Start by mixing the softened butter with garlic and herbs. In a medium bowl, combine 1 stick of unsalted butter, 6 minced cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of thyme, and 1 tablespoon of rosemary. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, along with salt and pepper to taste. If you like heat, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix until it’s smooth and fragrant. Set this aside for later.
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is key for great chicken. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start cooking. A hot oven helps the chicken cook evenly.
Searing the Chicken
Dry the chicken breasts well. Use paper towels to pat them dry; this step helps you get a nice sear. Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper. This simple step brings out the chicken’s flavor.
Baking the Chicken
After searing, it’s time to add the herb butter. In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the herb butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once browned, reduce the heat and spoon the remaining herb butter over the chicken. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
Resting the Chicken
Let the chicken rest after baking. Remove it from the oven and let it sit in the herb butter for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to stay inside the chicken, making it juicy and full of flavor.
Serving the Dish
Plating is part of the fun! Place the chicken breasts on a plate and drizzle any leftover herb butter over them. For a fresh touch, add lemon wedges and sprigs of herbs on the side. This makes the dish look nice and taste even better.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Searing Chicken
To get a golden-brown crust on your chicken, start with dry chicken breasts. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps the chicken sear nicely. Then, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and wait until it sizzles. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a rich, golden color.
Temperature control is key. Keep the heat steady. If it’s too high, the outside burns. If it’s too low, the chicken won’t brown. Adjust as needed for best results.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Garlic and herbs bring amazing flavor to your chicken. You can switch up the herbs based on what you like. Basil or oregano are great choices. For a twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or honey. These options can change the taste profile.
If you want more heat, add extra red pepper flakes. A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the dish too. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite mix.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is forgetting to season your chicken well. Always use salt and pepper generously. This makes a big difference in taste.
Another mistake is not resting the chicken after cooking. Let it sit for about five minutes after baking. This allows the juices to settle, keeping the meat juicy and tasty. Don’t skip this step; it’s important for a great meal!
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Butter: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality unsalted butter. It enhances the richness of the garlic herb mixture and elevates the overall taste of the dish.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest in the skillet for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix and match your favorite herbs. Basil, oregano, or even dill can add unique flavors to the garlic herb butter, customizing the dish to your liking.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the chicken is juicy and perfectly done.

Variations
Different Protein Options
You can make this dish with turkey or pork instead of chicken. Turkey breasts work well, but they may need a bit more time to cook. If you use pork, go for boneless chops. Adjust the cooking time based on thickness. Generally, turkey takes about 25-30 minutes, while pork may need 20-25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Herb and Flavor Variations
Feel free to switch up the herbs in this recipe. Basil, oregano, or dill can add a fun twist. You can also add citrus like lime or orange zest for a bright flavor. If you want more spice, try adding paprika or cumin. Mixing in different spices can create a unique taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with what you have on hand!
Cooking Methods
You can grill or bake this dish. Grilling gives a smoky taste, while oven-baking keeps it juicy. If you choose to grill, cook on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. You can also use an Instant Pot or slow cooker. For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then let it naturally release. If using a slow cooker, set it on low for about 4-6 hours. Each method offers a different flavor and texture, so pick what suits your style!
Storage Info
Freezing Leftovers
To freeze cooked chicken, first let it cool down. Place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Cool the chicken at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, store it in a shallow, airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store the chicken in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is the better option.
Reheating Tips
For reheating, use a microwave or oven. In the microwave, place the chicken on a plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in short bursts. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chicken until it reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
FAQs
What is the best way to check if the chicken is done?
The best way to check if chicken is done is by measuring its internal temperature. You want the chicken to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. For accurate measurement, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. This tool helps you know exactly when your chicken is perfect.
Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the herb butter ahead of time. When stored in the fridge, it lasts about one week. If you want it to last longer, freeze it. Just scoop it into ice cube trays or wrap it in parchment paper. This way, you can easily use it later in many dishes!
What side dishes pair well with garlic herb butter chicken?
Garlic herb butter chicken goes well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots
– Mashed potatoes for a creamy touch
– Rice pilaf to soak up the butter
– Fresh salad with greens and a light vinaigrette
For a colorful plate, mix and match these options!
This blog post details how to prepare a delicious garlic herb butter chicken. We covered the ingredients, which include chicken, butter, herbs, and spices. We discussed step-by-step instructions for making the dish, from preparing the herb butter to serving suggestions. Tips and tricks helped avoid common mistakes and enhance flavors. Finally, we explored variations with other proteins and storage options.
Remember, cooking is about creativity. Use these guidelines to make the dish your own. Enjoy every bit
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken
A flavorful chicken dish cooked with garlic herb butter for a juicy and aromatic meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- as needed lemon wedges, for serving
Prepare the Herb Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Incorporate the lemon zest along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. If you enjoy a little heat, stir in the red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and the butter becomes aromatic. Set this flavorful mixture aside for later.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for the chicken.
Season the Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is vital for achieving a nice sear. Generously season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the prepared garlic herb butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is visibly sizzling and fragrant, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crisped.
Add the Herb Butter Mixture: After the chicken breasts are nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Spoon the remaining garlic herb butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated well with the aromatic blend.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and registers an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be juicy and tender.
Rest the Chicken: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest in the garlic herb butter for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Serve: Plate the chicken breasts elegantly, drizzling any leftover garlic herb butter from the skillet over the top. For a vibrant touch, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and additional sprigs of herbs if desired.
Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it moist.
Keyword butter, chicken, garlic, herbs
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