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There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of garlic and butter melting together in a warm kitchen. It reminds me of busy weeknights when everyone is hungry, time feels short, and you just need something reliable that tastes incredible without a complicated process. This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet has become that dependable go to meal in my home.
The first time I made it, I was honestly just trying to use what I had in the fridge. A pack of chicken, a stick of butter, a few pantry spices. Nothing fancy. But the moment the chicken hit the hot skillet and started turning golden, I knew this was going to be special. The edges crisp up beautifully thanks to the light cornstarch coating, while the inside stays tender and juicy. Then comes the magic moment when that warm garlic herb butter coats every single bite.
It’s one of those meals that feels restaurant quality but is secretly very simple. You can serve it over rice, spoon it onto creamy mashed potatoes, or tuck it into a warm wrap. It works for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
What I love most is that it doesn’t demand perfection. Use the skillet you already own. Adjust the spices to your taste. Add a little extra lemon if you like brightness. Cooking should feel warm and flexible, not stressful.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet :
Step 1 :
Cut the chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and pat them completely dry with paper towels. I usually prep mine on a OXO Good Grips Utility Cutting Board, but any sturdy board you have at home works perfectly fine.
Step 2 :
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and salt. Toss the chicken pieces until evenly coated. I like using the OXO Good Grips 3 Quart Mixing Bowl, but truly any bowl in your kitchen will do the job.
Step 3 :
Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes to develop a golden crust. I cook mine in a Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, but your regular nonstick or stainless steel pan works just as well.
Step 4 :
Flip each piece and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel lined plate.
Step 5 :
Melt the butter in a small bowl or pan. Stir in the Italian seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne until well combined.
Step 6 :
Return the chicken to a clean bowl and pour the garlic butter mixture over the top. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that rich, fragrant sauce.
Step 7 :
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while warm and juicy.
Who This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Is Perfect For :
Kid-Friendly Appeal :
The tender bite sized pieces are easy for little hands to enjoy.
The mild garlic butter flavor feels familiar and comforting.
The golden crust adds texture without being too crispy.
It pairs well with simple sides kids already love.
Comfort-Food Lovers Benefits :
The rich butter sauce creates a warm and cozy feeling.
Each bite feels satisfying without being heavy.
The savory herbs bring depth and homestyle flavor.
It delivers that classic skillet dinner experience many grew up with.
Busy-Life Adults Advantages :
The recipe comes together quickly on a weeknight.
It uses simple pantry spices you likely already have.
Everything cooks in one pan for easier cleanup.
Leftovers reheat well for next day lunches.
Vegetarian / Dietary Friendly Appeal :
The recipe naturally fits a high protein lifestyle.
It can be adapted with plant based butter alternatives.
The simple ingredient list keeps it straightforward for dietary adjustments.
It works well for balanced meals focused on whole ingredients.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dinner made with tender chicken bites coated in seasoned cornstarch, pan-seared until golden, then tossed in rich garlic herb butter. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Ingredients
Instructions
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Cut chicken into bite sized pieces and pat dry.
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Toss chicken with cornstarch and salt.
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Heat oil in skillet and cook chicken 4 minutes undisturbed.
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Flip and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Remove chicken from pan.
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Melt butter and mix with all spices.
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Toss chicken in garlic butter.
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Garnish with lemon juice and parsley and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 26g40%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 135mg45%
- Sodium 520mg22%
- Potassium 620mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Protein 38g76%
- Vitamin A 750 IU
- Vitamin C 6 mg
- Calcium 35 mg
- Iron 2 mg
- Vitamin D 10 IU
- Vitamin E 2 mg
- Vitamin K 18 mcg
- Thiamin 0.2 mg
- Riboflavin 0.3 mg
- Niacin 14 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.8 mg
- Folate 18 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg
- Biotin 5 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1.2 mg
- Phosphorus 320 mg
- Iodine 12 mcg
- Magnesium 45 mg
- Zinc 2 mg
- Selenium 32 mcg
- Copper 0.1 mg
- Manganese 0.2 mg
- Chromium 4 mcg
- Molybdenum 8 mcg
- Chloride 380 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
Substitutions
Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for juicier results. Olive oil works instead of avocado oil. Smoked paprika can add a deeper flavor.
Serving ideas
Serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables. It also works well in wraps or grain bowls.
Mistakes to avoid
Do not overcrowd the skillet. Avoid flipping too early so the chicken develops a golden crust. Always cook to 165°F internal temperature.
Chef tips
Pat chicken dry before coating for better crisping. Let the chicken rest briefly before tossing in butter for maximum flavor absorption.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts
Yes boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay very juicy
Q. Is this recipe spicy
It has mild heat from cayenne but you can reduce or omit it
Q. Can I make this dairy free
Yes substitute the butter with a dairy free alternative or olive oil
Q. How do I know when the chicken is done
Use a thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F
Q. Can I meal prep this recipe
Yes it stores well and reheats easily making it perfect for meal prep
