Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken cutlets (about 1 ½ pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 large cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for garnish

Published: June 13, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Rich Flavor: The garlic-butter sauce infuses the chicken with incredible taste that will impress your family and friends.
Versatile Dish: Serve these cutlets with a side salad, pasta, or over rice for a complete meal that fits any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Spatula
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
Spatula: Helps in flipping the chicken cutlets easily while preventing them from breaking apart.

Ingredients

Tender chicken cutlets cooked in a rich garlic-butter sauce, finished with fresh parsley, Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon.

For the Chicken Cutlets

2 tablespoons olive oil
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

4 large cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves and tender stems, finely chopped
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Butter

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken cutlets to the skillet. Cook each side for about 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the remaining butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Then add minced garlic; stir for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the skillet to medium heat. Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with its juices. Add half of the chopped parsley to the pan and turn to coat each cutlet in the sauce. Season to taste with additional salt if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and remaining parsley. Optionally, offer lemon wedges on the side for added zest.

Enjoy this delectable dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that complement its rich flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Garden Salad – A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing bite.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan adds a creamy contrast.

Add a Starch

Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs complements the rich flavors of the chicken cutlets.

Garnish for Flavor

Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle extra parsley on top for color and freshness.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

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

Use Thin Cutlets – Thin cutlets cook evenly and quickly, ensuring tenderness throughout.
Dry the Chicken – Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
Monitor Cooking Time – Cook each side for about three minutes; overcooking may dry out the meat.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving to ensure it’s seasoned just right for your palate.
Let it Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Experiment with Herbs – Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets.

Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Roasted Asparagus – Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus complements the dish well.
Quinoa Salad – A hearty quinoa salad with vegetables offers a nutritious alternative to rice.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce on your plate.
Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs nicely.
Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory chicken cutlets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can impact your results. Here are some tips to ensure success.

Skipping the seasoning – Always season your chicken cutlets well before cooking. A little salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing flavor.
Using cold chicken – Make sure to pat your chicken dry and let it come to room temperature before cooking. This helps with even cooking and browning.
Not monitoring cook time – Overcooking or undercooking chicken can ruin the dish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Ignoring garlic timing – When adding garlic, do so off heat first until fragrant. This prevents burning and keeps the flavor bright.
Forgetting to garnish – Don’t skip the finishing touches! Topping with fresh parsley and Parmesan elevates the dish visually and adds extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Wrap individual cutlets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets

Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place cutlets on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Place cutlets on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter or oil, and warm cutlets for about 4-5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or pork cutlets. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

How do I make garlic butter sauce?

To make garlic butter sauce, melt butter in a skillet, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant. It’s perfect for many dishes!

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets?

These cutlets go well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They complement various flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken cutlets in garlic butter beforehand and store them in the refrigerator for easier cooking later.

How do I customize my Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor or adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Cutlets are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and allows for customization based on your taste preferences. Whether served alongside pasta or veggies, you’ll find this dish is sure to impress! Try it today and enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love.

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