This cheesy garlic butter chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed dish made with tender chicken breasts, rich butter, fragrant garlic, and a creamy melted cheese filling. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve when you want something extra satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy chicken is pan-seared until golden, then finished in a garlic butter sauce and stuffed with gooey cheese that melts beautifully. It uses everyday ingredients, comes together quickly, and pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 180–200 g each)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully slice a pocket into the side of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
In a small bowl, mix the mozzarella and cheddar cheese together. Stuff each chicken breast evenly with the cheese mixture and press gently to seal.
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and slightly bubbling.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for 6–8 minutes, or until fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cheesy garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered skillet over low heat with a small splash of water or broth until warmed through. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time may increase slightly due to their thickness.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella provides a great melt, while cheddar adds flavor. You can adjust the ratio or use one cheese if preferred.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, you can sear the chicken briefly, then bake at 190°C for about 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mildly seasoned. You can add chili flakes if you want heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can stuff and season the chicken a few hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What sides go well with cheesy garlic butter chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or pasta all pair well with this dish.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon garlic powder if needed.
Will the cheese leak out during cooking?
Some cheese may ooze out slightly, but it will mix with the sauce and add extra flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Cheesy garlic butter chicken is a rich and comforting meal that brings together juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and melted cheese in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again for both busy nights and special dinners.
Cheesy garlic butter chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish made with juicy pan-seared chicken breasts stuffed with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheese, all simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce. A perfect weeknight dinner with simple ingredients.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 180–200 g each)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Mix mozzarella and cheddar cheese in a bowl. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture and gently press to seal.
Season chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and bubbling.
Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the pan to release any browned bits.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6–8 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is melted.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Boneless thighs can be used instead of breasts—adjust cook time accordingly.
Use only mozzarella or cheddar if desired.
To bake: sear briefly, then bake at 190°C for 15–20 minutes.
Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a full meal.
Prepare chicken ahead by stuffing and seasoning, then refrigerate until ready to cook.
