Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, this easy stovetop meal quickly becomes a favorite for its simplicity and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare this dish in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce elevates the chicken, adding depth and richness to each bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use common pantry staples like olive oil and garlic that you probably already have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra portions to enjoy later, saving you time on future meals.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures the cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken without overcrowding.
• Slotted spatula: This helps you lift the chicken easily while leaving behind excess oil and sauce.
• Measuring spoons: Ensuring precise ingredient amounts leads to perfectly balanced flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
• 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)
• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Place the pounded chicken in the skillet. Season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook without moving for about 5 minutes until golden brown. For thicker breasts, cook for an additional minute or two.

Step 3: Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip the chicken over after five minutes. Allow it to cook on this side for another five minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 4: Remove and Rest Chicken

Using a slotted spatula, transfer the cooked chicken onto a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet

Pour in apple vinegar (or broth) into the hot skillet. Let it bubble up while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

Add unsalted butter into the pan. Stir continuously until it melts completely, then add minced garlic. Cook gently until fragrant (about one minute).

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat. Return the chicken back into the skillet, ensuring that it’s coated well with the garlic butter sauce by flipping it around.

Step 8: Serve

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, crunchy salad complements the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. This adds a hearty element to your meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Pairing garlic butter chicken with warm garlic bread creates a delightful combination. The crispy texture of the bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce.

On Pasta

• Toss the chicken with your favorite pasta for a satisfying dish. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can elevate this option even further.

As a Wrap

• Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies and sauce for an easy-to-eat meal. This makes for a great lunch idea!

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To make sure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it tender and flavorful.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Aim for 5–7 minutes per side.
• Deglaze Properly: When deglazing, scrape up any browned bits from the skillet; they add depth of flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your taste preference.
• Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile of your garlic butter chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy and crunchy contrast, balancing out the richness of the dish.
3. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness while adding a nice char that complements garlic butter chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness, making it a delightful side that everyone loves.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken dish perfectly.
7. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with vegetables offers freshness and texture alongside garlic butter chicken.
8. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini is another flavorful veggie option that provides a smoky element alongside your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always season both sides generously before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once prevents proper searing. Cook in batches if necessary for a perfect golden crust.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Failing to deglaze the pan can result in a less flavorful sauce. Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up those flavorful bits from the pan.
• Using Too Much Heat: Cooking on high heat may burn the garlic and butter. Maintain a medium heat for a perfect balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best taste.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, flipping halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken:

How can I make Garlic Butter Chicken healthier?

You can use skinless chicken breasts and substitute olive oil with a cooking spray to reduce calories.

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute white apple vinegar with rice vinegar or even lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken is great for meal prep and reheats wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. This dish offers endless customization options; feel free to add your favorite herbs or spice blends. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!