Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that checks all the boxes—comforting, quick, bold, and irresistibly creamy—then this Garlic Butter Chicken is going to be your new weeknight hero. Imagine succulent chunks of Cajun-seasoned chicken nestled on a bed of gluten free spaghetti, all swirled through a rich, garlicky butter sauce with zesty lemon and a whisper of heat. Each bite is crave-worthy, and it’s one of those dishes everyone at the table will ask for again and again. You’ve just stumbled onto the Garlic Butter Chicken recipe you’ll want to make on repeat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this list works together to make Garlic Butter Chicken truly shine. Each ingredient builds a layer of flavor, whether it’s depth, spice, or creamy richness. Don’t skip or substitute if you want that magic in every bite!

• Gluten free spaghetti (12 oz): Gives this dish a hearty, satisfying base and keeps it friendly for gluten-free eaters.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (3): The star protein, cubed for quick, even cooking and perfect forkfuls.
• Salt (1/2 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Essential for enhancing flavors and bringing balance to both chicken and sauce.
• Cajun seasoning (1 1/2 tsp + 3/4 tsp): Adds a gorgeous kick and beautiful flavor complexity—spicy but not overwhelming.
• Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Offers that mellow, sweet undertone you crave in savory dishes.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp + 1 tsp): Delivers a double punch of garlicky depth, key for the ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken.
• Paprika (1 tsp + 1 tsp): Warm, a little smoky, and adds a rich golden color to the sauce and chicken.
• Thyme (1 tsp): Earthy and aromatic, thyme gives subtle herbal notes that brighten the whole dish.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp + 1/4 tsp): Freshly ground is best for a little pop and gentle heat.
• Garlic olive oil (1 tbsp): Infuses more garlicky goodness right from the start; regular olive oil with added garlic also works.
• Lemon olive oil (1 tbsp): Zesty brightness; swap for regular olive oil plus a splash of lemon juice if needed.
• Dairy free butter (1 stick, softened): Creates that luscious finish, plus it’s great for those avoiding dairy.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Forms the savory, silky backbone of the sauce.
• Dried shallots (1 tbsp): Packs mellow oniony flavor that dissolves beautifully in the sauce.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): A splash for acidity to cut the richness and brighten everything up.
• Cold water (1 tbsp): Used to mix with cornstarch for optional sauce thickening.
• Cornstarch (1 tsp): If you like your sauce a little thicker, this is your friend—just mix with cold water first!

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by boiling your gluten free spaghetti according to the package instructions for that perfect al dente texture—just the right amount of bite to cradle the buttery sauce. Once it’s ready, drain and set it aside so it’s ready to welcome the saucy finish.

Step 2: Dice and Season the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts into neat, equal-sized cubes. This ensures every piece cooks evenly and soaks up the seasonings. In a bowl, combine the salt, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Add this mix to your chicken cubes and toss so every piece gets flavorful.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the garlic olive oil and lemon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, flipping occasionally until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through (165 degrees if you want to check). Transfer the chicken to a plate—try not to nibble too many pieces!

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Into the same pan (so you catch all those lovely browned bits), add the dairy free butter and dried shallots. Next, sprinkle in salt, black pepper, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and more garlic powder. As everything starts to bubble and meld together, stir in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any flavor from the pan bottom.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a sauce with a little more body, stir together the cornstarch and cold water to make a quick slurry. Drizzle it into the simmering sauce and stir until it thickens to your liking—rich, glossy, and ready for tossing.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the bubbling sauce, gently tossing until coated. Now, slip those golden chicken pieces back in and stir everything together. You want every strand and every bite to be slicked in garlicky, buttery magic. That’s it—your Garlic Butter Chicken is ready to plate!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Finish off your Garlic Butter Chicken with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a whisper of freshness. A sprinkle of extra black pepper or a curl of lemon zest never hurts, either—just to wake up all those flavors even more.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a zingy vinaigrette to lighten the meal. Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or tender green beans would also be perfect, soaking up a little extra sauce on the plate. Don’t forget a slice of crusty gluten free bread for mopping up every drop!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Garlic Butter Chicken family style on a big platter, letting everyone dig in. Or, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate, topping with golden chicken and a finishing spoonful of sauce. Little touches go a long way—try serving in bowls for a cozy, comforting feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Garlic Butter Chicken will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. This is an excellent option if you love a satisfying lunch the next day!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish. Portion into single servings for grab-and-go meals, and freeze for up to one month. Just note the pasta may soften a bit on reheating, but the garlicky butter flavor will still be delicious.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave, stirring halfway through, but stovetop will best preserve the original creamy texture of your Garlic Butter Chicken.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten free?

Absolutely! Regular spaghetti or even fettuccine works beautifully here if gluten isn’t a concern. The magic is in the Garlic Butter Chicken sauce and flavorful chicken, so use the pasta shape you love most.

I can’t find lemon olive oil—what should I do?

No worries at all. Just use regular olive oil and add a splash more lemon juice as you cook. If you’d like, add an extra pinch of lemon zest to the final sauce for extra zing.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a little extra richness. Simply cut them into cubes and follow the recipe as written for ultra-moist Garlic Butter Chicken.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can cut back on the Cajun seasoning or use a mild blend. Tasting as you season is the best way to dial in the right balance for your family.

What type of dairy free butter works best?

Both margarine-style and coconut oil-based dairy free butters work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite brand—the important part is that it’s softened so it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken is destined to become your new kitchen staple: easy enough for a rushed Tuesday, yet delicious enough for a special family meal on the weekend. Give it a try, savor every garlicky bite, and don’t be surprised if it disappears faster than you expected!

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