Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1" pieces); 5 tablespoons vegan butter (divided); 1/4 cup arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour; 1 tablespoon seasoning mix; 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic

Published: July 14, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute dinners.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and vegan butter creates a savory richness that enhances the chicken.
Versatile Meal: Pair it with rice, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients makes this meal easy on the wallet without sacrificing quality.
Healthy Option: Whole30 compliant and packed with protein, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much easier. Below are some essential items to have on hand when preparing Garlic Butter Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag
Large sauté pan
Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken with seasonings, ensuring even flavor distribution.
Large sauté pan: A must-have for achieving that nice sear on the chicken while allowing for even cooking.
Spatula or wooden spoon: Essential for flipping the chicken easily and mixing in the garlic without damaging the meat.

Ingredients

A FAST and easy budget-friendly 20-minute dinner with basic ingredients but full of flavor!

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 pieces)
5 tablespoons vegan butter (divided, see notes if on Whole30)
1/4 cup arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour or starch (see notes for Keto)
1 tablespoon Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute (see notes for alternative)
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add cubed chicken to a large bowl or reusable zip-top bag.
Add all of the seasonings and flour or starch (if using) to the bowl or bag.
Stir or toss until well coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add 3 tablespoons of vegan butter.
Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer.
Cook until there are brown crispy bits on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the chicken is mostly browned, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegan butter and minced garlic.
Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until garlic is lightly browned and fragrant, ensuring the chicken is cooked through (no pink inside).

Step 4: Serve

Do a happy dance that dinner is done ALREADY! If you are in a hurry, pair this dish with steam-in-a-bag rice or cauliflower rice along with green beans that you can steam in your microwave while the chicken cooks. BOOM, dinner is done!

Step 5: Store Leftovers

Freeze leftover chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

This Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Vegetables

Broccoli: A classic choice, simply steam until tender for a nutritious side.
Green Beans: Lightly sauté with garlic for added flavor and crunch.

Over Cauliflower Rice

Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs the flavors of the chicken beautifully. You can cook it quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop.

On a Salad

Mixed Greens: Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of fresh greens, drizzled with lemon juice for a refreshing touch.
Spinach Salad: Pair with walnuts and vinaigrette for a nutrient-packed meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

Romaine or Butter Lettuce: Use large leaves to wrap the chicken and add shredded carrots and cucumbers for crunch.

How to PerfectGarlic Butter Chicken

To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to pre-minced options.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each piece of chicken enough space to get crispy.
Check doneness: Always make sure there’s no pink inside by cutting into a piece; it should be white and juicy.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning amounts based on your taste preferences—add more garlic salt or pepper as desired.
Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy when you cut into it.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing your Garlic Butter Chicken with delightful side dishes can take your meal from good to great. Here are some fantastic options:

Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed or raw, they add a fresh texture and soak up flavors well.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and savory, these provide a hearty complement when roasted until caramelized.
Quinoa: Packed with protein, this grain not only fills you up but also adds a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with chicken.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick to prepare, it adds vibrant color and nutrients; simply sauté with olive oil and garlic.
Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that remains Whole30-friendly; season with garlic and herbs.
Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy side that can be made quickly; toss shredded cabbage with vinegar and spices for tangy freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Garlic Butter Chicken even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using the wrong flour or starch – Ensure you choose arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour as they work best for this recipe. Avoid regular flour as it won’t provide the same texture.
Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for about 5 minutes per side to keep it juicy and tender.
Not seasoning properly – Failing to coat the chicken with enough seasoning can lead to bland results. Be generous with the garlic salt and spices for maximum flavor.
Skipping the resting time – Letting the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking helps retain juices. This step enhances tenderness and flavor.
Not using fresh garlic – Fresh garlic adds a vibrant flavor that powdered versions can’t match. Always opt for minced fresh garlic in this recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

Place in a freezer-safe container.
Freezer life is up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Stovetop – Use a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of broth if needed, stirring until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken:

Can I use other proteins for Garlic Butter Chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb based on your preference without changing the recipe’s essence.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply replace vegan butter with ghee or olive oil for a delicious dairy-free option while keeping it Whole30 compliant.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Can I adjust the spice level in Garlic Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy heat in your dishes.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy but also versatile and full of flavor. Its customizable nature allows you to explore different seasoning blends or substitute proteins as desired. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

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