Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions Recipe for Juicy, Tender Bites

Katherine

Honoring generations of culinary artistry.

There’s something truly magical about the sizzle of garlic melting into warm butter, especially when it’s coating tender chicken medallions that are juicy and bursting with flavor. I discovered this Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions recipe on a day when I was craving comfort food but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The result? A quick, elegant dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re a home cook tired of takeout or a chef looking for a crowd-pleaser, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Let me walk you through how to make this easy, flavorful dish that’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Why Choose Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions?

Irresistibly Juicy: These medallions stay tender and moist with every bite. Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything in your pantry already. Speedy Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: Garlic and butter create a rich, savory blend that’s hard to resist. Versatile Dish: Serve with veggies, pasta, or crusty bread for endless meal options.

Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions Ingredients

For the Chicken Medallions

Chicken breast medallions – Choose evenly sized pieces for quick, uniform cooking.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
Black pepper – Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

Unsalted butter – Use fresh butter to achieve that rich, creamy base.
Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic packs the punch that defines this dish.
Fresh parsley – Chopped finely to add a bright, herbal finish.
Lemon juice – A splash to brighten and balance the buttery sauce.

Optional Add-ons

Red pepper flakes – Sprinkle for a subtle heat that complements garlic.
Chicken broth – For deglazing the pan and boosting flavor depth in the sauce.

This simple list of Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions ingredients combines to create a tender, juicy dish that’s bursting with comforting, home-cooked goodness.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions

Season Chicken: Pat chicken medallions dry, then sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides for 2 minutes, ensuring each piece is coated for perfect flavor.
Sear Chicken: Preheat skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, then place medallions spaced evenly. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and juices run clear.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Melt Butter: Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the same skillet, scraping up browned bits, about 1 minute until it bubbles with a nutty aroma.
Add Garlic & Lemon: Stir in minced garlic, cooking 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour a splash of lemon juice (or broth) and deglaze the pan, lifting those golden bits.
Combine & Finish: Nestle chicken back into sauce, spooning butter mixture over medallions. Cook additional 1–2 minutes until chicken is well coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
Rest & Serve: Transfer medallions to a platter, let rest 2 minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes before serving warm.

Optional: Top with extra lemon zest for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken medallions and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and ensuring a juicy finish. The garlic butter sauce can be made ahead as well; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the garlic butter sauce in a skillet before adding the chicken medallions to avoid overcooking. Once everything is warmed through and the sauce is bubbling, simply serve, and you’ll have a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions

Feel free to mix and match flavors to create your own spin on this delightful dish!

Herb-Infused:
Substitute parsley with thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish beautifully. The aroma of fresh herbs brings a delightful earthiness.
Lemon Zest Boost:
Add the zest of one lemon along with the juice for an extra citrusy kick. It brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing note.
Spicy Kick:
Incorporate a teaspoon of sriracha or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the butter sauce for a fiery touch. The heat complements the richness of the butter and garlic perfectly.
Creamy Option:
Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce for a luscious, creamy finish that’s simply irresistible. This creates a velvety texture that clings to each medallion.
Vegetable Medley:
Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus with the chicken while finishing in the sauce, adding color and nutrition. This creates a harmonious one-pan meal bursting with flavors.
Gluten-Free Swap:
Use gluten-free broth and serve with quinoa or rice for a hearty, gluten-free meal that still satisfies. It’s a comforting alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Accent:
Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or chopped walnuts on top before serving for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
Pesto Variation:
Mix in a couple of tablespoons of basil pesto with the garlic butter for an Italian twist that adds depth and an herby finish. The result is a burst of flavor that elevates your dish to new heights.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions

Fridge: Store cooked Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the medallions in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will stay well for up to 2 months when properly sealed.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter to maintain juiciness, about 5-7 minutes.

Leftover Sauce: Don’t discard the garlic butter sauce! Refrigerate it separately for up to a week, or freeze in ice cube trays for easy, flavor-packed additions to future meals.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions

Choose Even Medallions: Select chicken pieces of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and juicy, tender bites every time.
Dry Before Seasoning: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before salting and peppering; moisture prevents proper searing and browning.
Don’t Overcrowd Pan: Cook medallions in batches if needed, to avoid steaming and to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic delivers the richest flavor; add it last and cook briefly to avoid bitterness.
Deglaze Thoroughly: Use lemon juice or chicken broth to lift flavorful pan bits, making your garlic butter sauce irresistibly savory.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to lock in juices and keep each bite tender and flavorful.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions?

The perfect pairing can elevate your dining experience and turn a simple meal into a culinary delight.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the savory garlic sauce, soaking up every last drop.
Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a vibrant color and refreshing crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the aroma of warm, toasty garlic bread, perfect for mopping up that delicious buttery sauce left on your plate.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a refreshing crunch and adds a creamy, tangy note that harmonizes with the richness of the chicken.
Risotto: Creamy risotto with Parmesan gives a luxurious mouthfeel, while its subtle flavors balance the boldness of the garlic butter.
Lemon-Herb Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs lifts the dish with its zesty flavor and pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini showers your plate with both taste and nutrition.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the meal, as its crisp acidity complements the buttery flavor and clings to every bite.
Chocolate Mousse: End your dinner on a sweet note; a rich chocolate mousse perfectly contrasts the savoriness of the meal with its delightfully smooth texture.

Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken breast medallions for this recipe?
I recommend selecting medallions that are evenly sized and about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This ensures they cook uniformly, staying juicy and tender. Avoid pieces with dark spots or any unpleasant odor—freshness is key to the best flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions?
Store cooled medallions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely to avoid condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. This way, the tender texture and rich flavor remain intact.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions? How should I do it?
Absolutely! First, lay the cooked medallions in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter for 5-7 minutes.

My chicken sometimes turns out dry or tough—how can I avoid this?
Great question! Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps it sear beautifully without steaming. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure a perfect golden crust. Also, cook medallions just until juices run clear—overcooking steals moisture. Resting them a couple of minutes post-cooking seals in those lovely juices.

Is this dish safe for family members with dietary restrictions or pets?
This recipe contains garlic and butter, which are delicious for us but can be harmful to pets, especially dogs and cats. If you have allergies or intolerances in your family, consider substituting butter with a dairy-free alternative and omit garlic or use garlic-infused oil for a milder option. Always double-check individual dietary needs to keep everyone safe and happy!