01 -
First, grab those chicken breasts and pat them super dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting that beautiful sear, remember my steamy chicken incident? Slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets, about 1/2-inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This ensures every bite of our chicken is flavorful, not just the outside.
02 -
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is my fave!) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You want a gorgeous golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Cook in batches if you need to, then set the chicken aside on a plate. This step builds so much flavor!
03 -
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, toss in that glorious minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Don't let it burn, hon, or it'll get bitter! Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that's pure flavor gold for your sauce.
04 -
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. The aroma at this point? Oh my goodness. It's rich, garlicky, and absolutely divine. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.
05 -
Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning that incredible garlic butter sauce over each piece. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, just enough for the chicken to warm through and soak up all that creamy goodness. Make sure everything is coated. This helps the chicken stay juicy and ensures every bite is drenched in flavor.
06 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. Give it a taste – does it need a little more salt or pepper? Maybe a tiny bit more lemon? Adjust to your liking! Serve your Homestyle Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet immediately with your favorite sides. It looks so impressive, but it was just a little kitchen dance, right?