This recipe is fast, flavorful, and uses everyday ingredients. The garlic butter adds richness and depth while keeping the chicken moist and tender. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with almost anything, making it a staple for weekly meal plans.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
Garlic cloves, minced
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika (optional for color and flavor)
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional for serving)
Directions
Season chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken tenders and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not burn).
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over the top to coat.
Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 10–12 minutes Total time: 15–17 minutes
Variations
Creamy Garlic: Add a splash of heavy cream to the butter for a richer sauce.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Herb-Infused: Stir in chopped rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor.
Cheesy Option: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan just before serving.
Low-Sodium: Use unsalted butter and reduce added salt to control sodium levels.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or olive oil, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender. This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the butter sauce, which may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, just slice them into strips to match the size of tenders for even cooking.
Can I bake or air fry these instead?
You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes. Finish with garlic butter in a skillet.
What should I serve with garlic butter chicken tenders?
They go great with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, use ½ teaspoon garlic powder per clove.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it contains no gluten. Just ensure your seasonings and butter are certified gluten-free if necessary.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Tenders cook quickly, so monitor them closely.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, toss in quick-cooking veggies like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes after the garlic for a one-pan meal.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but butter offers a richer, more authentic flavor that complements the garlic better.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter alternatives and check labels to ensure the substitute suits your needs.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The mild garlic flavor and tender texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that fits any night of the week. With rich, garlicky butter coating each tender bite, this recipe is comforting, quick, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, slicing them over salads, or packing them in lunchboxes, these chicken tenders are sure to become a go-to favorite.
Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders are juicy, golden, and packed with rich garlic flavor. Cooked quickly in a skillet with a luscious garlic butter sauce, they’re a perfect weeknight dinner served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions
Season chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken tenders and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon garlic butter over the top to coat.
Cook for another minute, remove from heat, and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Add a splash of cream for a creamy garlic butter variation.Spice it up with red pepper flakes or cayenne.Finish with grated Parmesan for extra flavor.Pair with veggies, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.Not ideal for freezing due to the butter-based sauce.
