Chicken (Pan-Seared in Garlic Butter

Pan-seared chicken in garlic butter is a quick, flavorful, and juicy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant meals. The combination of golden-brown chicken, rich butter, and aromatic garlic creates a restaurant-quality dish right at home. This method locks in moisture and adds incredible flavor.

⏱ PREP TIME

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: ~30 minutes
Servings: 2–4

🍳 EQUIPMENT

Large skillet or frying pan
Tongs or spatula
Knife & cutting board
Measuring spoons

🧾 INGREDIENTS

2–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional)
1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving

Optional garnish:

Chopped parsley

📝 INGREDIENT NOTES

Chicken: Even thickness ensures even cooking; pound if necessary.
Butter and garlic: Creates a rich, flavorful sauce while searing.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds aroma and complexity.
Paprika: Optional for color and subtle smoky flavor.

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1️⃣ Prepare the chicken

Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2️⃣ Heat the skillet

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

3️⃣ Sear the chicken

Add chicken and sear 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.

4️⃣ Make garlic butter

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, sauté garlic 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Optional: Add fresh herbs to infuse flavor.

5️⃣ Combine and serve

Return chicken to skillet, spoon garlic butter over the top.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with parsley.

🥗 NUTRITION FACTS (approx. per serving)

Calories: ~300
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 1g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: depends on seasoning

⭐ TIPS FOR PERFECT PAN-SEARED GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN

✔ Pat chicken dry to achieve a golden crust
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed
✔ Use medium-high heat for sear, medium for garlic butter
✔ Let chicken rest 3–5 minutes before slicing
✔ Spoon garlic butter over chicken right before serving