If you’re searching for a dinner that’s pure comfort with serious flavor payoff, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken brings it all to the table. Tender chicken breasts are seared until juicy and golden, bathed in savory garlic butter, then smothered with a blend of gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan. Each bite is loaded with melty cheese, garlic’s warmth, and the cozy satisfaction of a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing skillet meal. Trust me, this one’s destined to become a weeknight (or any night) favorite.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken shines the brightest when you use simple, good-quality ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to add either richness, flavor, or that irresistible cheesy melt you crave. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and thick enough to stay juicy—they’re the ultimate blank canvas for bold flavors.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken all the way through, unlocking every other flavor.
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle, peppery bite that balances the richness.
Garlic Powder: Layers in savory depth and ensures the garlic flavor is present from the very first bite.
Paprika: Gives a gentle warmth and beautiful color to the finished dish.
Olive Oil: Helps the chicken sear to golden perfection while adding a subtle, fruity note.
Unsalted Butter: Provides decadence and that signature garlic butter sauce—make sure it’s unsalted so you control the seasoning.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh and minced for a nice punchy, aromatic kick.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Delivers melty, stretchy, classic cheesy appeal that no skillet chicken should live without.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty edge and turns bubbly and golden under heat.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped and sprinkled at the end, it brings color and a hint of freshness that makes the meal pop.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out the chicken breasts on a cutting board, and pat them dry with paper towels—this is key to getting a lovely sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika so every bite is jazzed up with flavor.

Step 2: Sear Until Golden

Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken breasts. Let them sizzle undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This gives you a beautiful golden crust while keeping the insides tender. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through yet—they’ll finish in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

With the chicken golden, dial the heat down to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, swirl and spoon the garlicky goodness over the chicken for about a minute. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and trust me, this is the moment when Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken really begins to strut its stuff!

Step 4: Smother in Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy—this is what makes the dish so decadently cheesy. The cheese will melt into the buttery garlic sauce, creating a decadent topping that’s both creamy and golden.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the whole skillet into your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer hits 165°F) and the cheese is bubbling with golden edges. Shower the finished dish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of brightness before serving hot.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh parsley leaves are the classic finisher—scatter them generously over the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken for an extra pop of color and freshness. If you love a little kick, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan never goes amiss either.

Side Dishes

This dish invites pairing with cozy classics: creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. Each soaks up the extra garlic butter and cheese, turning dinner into a real event. For a lighter option, tossed greens or a simple arugula salad brighten up the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken right from the skillet—there’s something about that bubbling cheese and golden sauce that feels ultra-inviting. Or, try slicing the breasts and fanning them across a platter with parsley strewn on top. It also looks elegant piled over pasta or nestled in toasted garlic bread as the world’s best open-faced sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The cheesy sauce will thicken slightly but soaks the chicken with extra flavor as it rests.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken! Wrap individual portions tightly with foil or plastic, then stash in freezer-safe bags for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—you’ll keep the chicken tender and the cheese melty.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to keep things moist, until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again (about 15 minutes). For a quick option, microwave on medium in 30-second intervals, but the oven keeps everything tasting freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful, making them a fantastic substitute. Just keep an eye on cook times, since thighs may need a few extra minutes in the oven to reach perfection.

Is Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just be mindful of your cheese labels to make sure there are no additives containing gluten if you’re highly sensitive.

What’s the best way to shred mozzarella for this dish?

Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than the pre-shredded kind. If you have time, run a block of mozzarella through your box grater for the ultimate gooey topping.

How can I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken even spicier?

If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the seasoning mix before searing the chicken. A spicy finishing drizzle of chili oil also works beautifully.

Can I prepare Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time for guests?

Certainly! You can sear the chicken, assemble it with garlic butter and cheese, and refrigerate the skillet (covered) until you’re ready to bake. Add an extra minute or two to the bake time if starting from cold.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken soon—it’s truly one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again. Every bite brings cheesy, buttery coziness you can’t resist. Give it a try for a dinner that’s both simple to make and absolutely unforgettable!

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and melted cheeses. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil

Garlic Butter and Cheese:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Sear the chicken: In a skillet, sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
Make the garlic butter: Add butter and garlic to the skillet, then spoon over the chicken.
Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the chicken.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until chicken is cooked and cheese is melted.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.