Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and a luscious garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table. The rich flavors, quick preparation time, and easy cooking method ensure that this dish will become a family favorite in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of cooking time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce adds an irresistible richness that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal suitable for any occasion.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples, you can whip up Garlic Butter Chicken without any fuss.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory flavors of this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools that will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking and searing of the chicken while providing ample space to make the sauce.
• Slotted spatula: Helps remove the chicken from the skillet without excess oil or sauce, keeping it perfectly cooked.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurement of seasonings and ingredients for balanced flavor.

Ingredients

🧄🧈🍗 Tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of wine for extra flavor! This EASY stovetop chicken recipe is ready in 15 minutes and will become a family FAVORITE!

For the Chicken

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness (4 average-sized breasts))
• 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth (or as necessary)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more if you want extra sauce)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced; or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

To start, add olive oil to your large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the pounded chicken in the skillet. Evenly season it with 21 Salute seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook without disturbing for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken carefully using tongs and sear for another 5 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 2: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked through, use a slotted spatula to remove the chicken from the skillet. Place it on a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Deglaze the Skillet

In the same skillet, add your choice of white wine or chicken broth. Be cautious as you deglaze by allowing it to bubble up vigorously. This step will enhance your sauce’s flavor by incorporating all those delicious brown bits left behind.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add unsalted butter into the bubbling liquid and stir continuously until melted—about one minute. Next, add finely minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring for approximately one minute.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat after preparing your garlic butter sauce. Add the rested chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat thoroughly in that rich garlic butter sauce. Spoon additional sauce over each piece of chicken before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately alongside your favorite sides!

This easy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and impress your family or guests.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Add a pop of color and nutrition with vibrant green broccoli steamed until tender.
• Carrots: Sweet, bright orange carrots complement the savory garlic butter sauce beautifully.
• Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a delightful crunch and freshness.

On a Bed of Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious garlic butter sauce, making every bite flavorful.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, serve with nutty brown rice that adds texture and fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a light base while soaking up flavors.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mix of greens topped with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a satisfying contrast to the buttery chicken.

As Sandwiches

• Toasted Buns: Place the chicken on toasted buns for a quick and tasty sandwich option.
• Wraps: Use tortillas to wrap the chicken along with veggies for an easy handheld meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To achieve the best results when cooking Garlic Butter Chicken, keep these tips in mind. They will help you create tender, juicy chicken every time.

• Use even thickness: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly without drying out.
• Don’t disturb while searing: Letting the chicken sear without moving it creates a nice golden crust, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Deglaze properly: Adding wine or broth to deglaze the skillet captures all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enriching your sauce.
• Monitor cooking time: Make sure to check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be opaque throughout.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your garlic butter sauce before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Complementing your Garlic Butter Chicken with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the dish.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds a nutritious touch alongside your chicken.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted until crispy brings earthy flavors that balance out the richness of the sauce.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, adding freshness to each bite.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the savory elements of garlic butter chicken beautifully.
6. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables offers a colorful, flavorful addition that rounds out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken can be simple, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the chicken: This leads to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Not seasoning enough: Skip the bland dish by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken before cooking. This enhances flavor and makes your dish more enjoyable.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain juices. Wait a few minutes before slicing for juicier results.
• Using too much heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the garlic or sear the chicken unevenly. Stick to medium-high for even cooking.
• Neglecting to deglaze properly: Failing to deglaze can result in missed flavor in your garlic butter sauce. Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits from the pan!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals on medium power, checking frequently until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, and cover until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, often enhanced with white wine or broth.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts; adjust cooking time as necessary since thighs may require longer cooking.

How do I make this recipe Keto-friendly?

To keep it Keto-friendly, ensure you use only low-carb ingredients like butter and avoid any added sugars in sauces.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms during cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

How spicy is Garlic Butter Chicken?

This recipe is not spicy unless you choose to add chili flakes or hot sauce. Adjust spices based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful and versatile recipe that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or side dishes!