Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you want a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. In this article, you’ll learn how to create this mouthwatering dish using simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The best part? You can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes! Whether you serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables, this Garlic Butter Chicken will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the rich flavors of garlic and butter as they meld beautifully with juicy chicken breasts. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this delightful dish without stress.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of ingredients delivers outstanding flavor. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spices to suit your palate.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep. Simply reheat and enjoy whenever you’re hungry!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich taste of garlic butter chicken. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any family gathering.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced or sliced works well.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better; it’s essential for creating that rich buttery sauce.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of Italian herbs adds depth to the flavor; consider using oregano or thyme based on your preference.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness; feel free to use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to it:
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow it to heat up before adding the chicken.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat dry the boneless skinless chicken breasts with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce
In a separate bowl while the chicken cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add minced fresh garlic and stir until fragrant (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once cooked through, pour the garlic butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Gently coat each piece evenly with sauce for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Plate Your Dish
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired. Serve hot with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times.
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results.
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in garlic butter mixture overnight before cooking.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken
This Garlic Butter Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Pasta: The creamy garlic butter sauce clings beautifully to pasta, making it a satisfying meal.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in garlic butter for up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine softened butter, minced garlic, and seasonings, then coat the chicken. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Storing: Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent overheating.
FAQs :
What is Garlic Butter Chicken?
it is a delicious and savory dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe highlights the flavors of garlic, herbs, and butter, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. The chicken can be pan-seared or baked, making it versatile for various cooking methods. The garlic butter sauce not only enhances the chicken but also pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables. For those who love bold flavors, this dish is a must-try.
How do I make it?
Making Garlic Butter Chicken is relatively simple. Begin by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Once fragrant, add the chicken to the pan and sear it until golden brown on both sides. You can then finish cooking it in the oven or let it simmer in the garlic butter sauce for extra flavor. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the taste even further. This method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while absorbing all the delicious flavors from the garlic and butter.
What ingredients are needed for it?
The primary ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken include boneless chicken breasts or thighs, unsalted butter, fresh garlic cloves, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. You may also add herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic touch. Some recipes might incorporate lemon juice for acidity or chicken broth to enhance the sauce’s depth of flavor. This straightforward ingredient list allows you to create a dish that’s flavorful yet uncomplicated, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How long does it take to cook it?
The cooking time for Garlic Butter Chicken typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces and your chosen cooking method. If you opt to pan-sear the chicken first and then finish it in the oven, you may need about 15 minutes on each side. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Using a meat thermometer helps guarantee that your chicken cooks through without drying out.
Can I use frozen chicken for it ?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken to make Garlic Butter Chicken; however, you should always thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator is ideal but if you’re short on time, you can use cold water to defrost it quickly. Once thawed, proceed with seasoning and cooking as per your recipe instructions. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on how well-thawed your chicken is before searing.
What sides pair well with it?
Garlic Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Popular options include creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or sautéed green beans seasoned with lemon zest. A fresh garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette also makes a refreshing choice alongside this dish. Additionally, garlic bread can be an indulgent side to soak up any leftover sauce from your plate. These sides help create a balanced meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Conclusion:
In summary, Garlic Butter Chicken is an easy yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. By following straightforward steps to sear the chicken in buttery garlic goodness, you’ll create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Pairing this dish with complementary sides enhances its appeal and rounds out your dining experience beautifully. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a savory masterpiece. This easy recipe combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up a comforting meal that your family will love. Pair it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- – Fresh garlic
- – Unsalted butter
- – Dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme)
- – Paprika
- – Salt and black pepper
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried herbs.
3. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. In a separate bowl, melt butter and mix in minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the cooked chicken and coat evenly.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic butter mixture overnight. You can also add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 30g
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