f there’s one recipe you’ll want to bookmark forever, it’s this One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken. Juicy chicken thighs seared to golden perfection, drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce, all cooked in a single pan. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and bursting with mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish delivers every time!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required—everything you need is likely in your kitchen already.
Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables for a complete meal.

What Does Garlic Butter Chicken Taste Like?

Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken coated in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. The butter adds richness, while a hint of herbs elevates the dish to gourmet status. The crispy seared skin adds a delightful crunch that makes each bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (optional but highly recommended)
½ cup chicken broth
Juice of half a lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste

Tools for Preparation

A large skillet or sauté pan
Tongs for turning the chicken
Measuring cups and spoons
A spoon for basting

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

Chicken Options: Swap thighs for boneless breasts or drumsticks. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Herbs: Use parsley or sage if you don’t have thyme or rosemary on hand.
Broth: Vegetable broth can work in a pinch.
Garlic: Love garlic? Add a couple of extra cloves!

How to Make One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt.
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up.
Spoon some sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the chicken and drizzle generously with the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken

Sides: Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a crisp side salad.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

Pat Chicken Dry: Ensures crispy skin when searing.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain a good sear.
Keep an Eye on the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so stir constantly and lower the heat as needed.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prep the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat gently before serving.

What Can I Use Instead of Butter?
Try olive oil for a lighter option, though you’ll miss some of the rich flavor.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
It sure is! Just ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

One Pan Garlic Butter Chicken is the answer to your dinner dilemmas—simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Whether for a family meal or a cozy date night, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

Looking for more mouthwatering one-pan recipes? Don’t miss these delicious ideas: One Pan Chicken Thighs and Pasta, One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, or Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms.

Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest—we’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 24g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 480mg