Quick & Easy Garlic Butter Chicken

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As a father of two boys, life in our household is fast-paced, especially with both my wife and me working full-time as shift workers.

Mealtime can be a challenge, but this Garlic Butter Chicken has become a lifesaver for us.

It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy families like ours.

The best part?

My boys absolutely love it.

Watching them eagerly dig into their plates is one of those small joys that makes the craziness of our schedules worthwhile.

If you’re rushing in from a late shift or trying to squeeze dinner in before bedtime, this recipe comes together in no time.

A photo of garlic butter chicken with a side of pasta and vegetables. The chicken is golden brown, and it is cooked with a garlic butter sauce. The pasta is cooked al dente and is coated in the garlic butter sauce. The vegetables are steamed and are placed on the side of the dish. The overall dish is placed on a white plate and is garnished with fresh parsley. The background is simple and clean.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish is all about simplicity and taste.

The rich, buttery garlic sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken, while the thyme adds a subtle earthy note.

If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of honey or a splash of white wine can take the flavours to the next level—but even without these, it’s a crowd-pleaser every single time.

Garlic Butter Chicken

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4-6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon honey
  • Optional: Splash of white wine

Instructions
 

  • Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Place chicken in the skillet and cook 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Sprinkle in dried thyme and stir in honey if using.
  • Add a splash of white wine if desired, stirring to combine.
  • Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
A photo of garlic butter chicken with a golden-brown texture. The chicken is covered in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. There are also green vegetables, such as broccoli and mushrooms, cooked in the same sauce. The dish is served on a white plate. The background is simple, with a beige wall and a wooden shelf.

Tips for Success

  • Use what you have: Chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully here.
  • Prep ahead: Mince your garlic and season the chicken ahead of time for an even faster dinner.
  • Serve it up: Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or even some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

A Family Tradition

I’ve made this recipe so many times that it’s starting to feel like a family tradition.

After a long day, there’s something comforting about sitting down together to share a home-cooked meal, even if it’s just for a quick 20 minutes before heading out the door again.

Give this Garlic Butter Chicken a try—it just might become a favorite in your home too. From my family to yours, happy cooking!

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