Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
Why Garlic Butter Chicken is Your New Go-To Meal
If you’re searching for a delicious and quick-to-make dinner, look no further than garlic butter chicken! This dish is a lifesaver for young professionals juggling busy schedules. The rich, buttery sauce combines savory garlic with tender chicken breasts to create a meal that's as satisfying as it is simple.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this culinary delight using only a handful of ingredients! The garlic and butter infusion tantalizes your taste buds while delivering a comforting, home-cooked feel that’s hard to resist. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated, and that’s where garlic butter chicken shines as a frontrunner. Not only does it satisfy cravings, but it also allows you to hone your culinary skills.
Curious about how to make this fantastic dish? Stick around for the full recipe below, and don’t forget to grab your trusty frying pan and wooden spoon! Let’s elevate your weeknight dinners into something exceptional yet effortless.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you’re ready to whip up a delicious garlic butter chicken, having the right ingredients is key!
Essential ingredients for the sauce
For a rich and flavorful sauce, you’ll need:
- 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter—this is where the magic happens, adding creaminess.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced—because what’s garlic butter without garlic?
- ½ cup of chicken stock for that savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help with cooking and flavor.
Chicken selection and preparation
Opt for two chicken breasts (about 9oz each), ensuring they’re close to room temperature for even cooking. Butterfly them into thinner pieces; this not only reduces cooking time but also allows for maximum sauce coverage.
Seasoning and garnishes
A sprinkle of salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (½ teaspoon) will enhance the flavors perfectly. For a fresh, vibrant touch, add finely diced fresh parsley as a garnish. A lemon wedge on the side can also brighten each bite, balancing the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
For extra tips on selecting quality chicken, check out this insightful guide on chicken cuts. Enjoy making your garlic butter chicken!
Step-by-step Preparation for Garlic Butter Chicken
Cooking a delicious garlic butter chicken dish is not just about following a recipe; it's about crafting a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you whip up this scrumptious meal in no time.
Gather and prep your ingredients
The first step is gathering everything you need, which ensures a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll require:
- Two chicken breasts (approximately 250g each)
- ¼ cup of plain (all-purpose) flour
- Chicken stock (½ cup or 120ml)
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, divided)
- Two cloves of garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, finely diced)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- A lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
Before you start cooking, make sure your chicken is at room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
Dredge the chicken in seasoned flour
Next, let’s add a crispy exterior to our chicken. Take a shallow dish and mix your flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Butterfly each chicken breast to make four even pieces; this not only helps with cooking but also makes the plating look attractive. One by one, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and set them aside.
Sear the chicken to golden perfection
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter along with a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Brace yourself for that delightful sizzle! Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Use tongs for easy flipping; no one wants to risk burning their fingertips! Once seared, remove the chicken and set aside.
Create the garlic butter sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan, frying for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan! Pour in your chicken stock and scrape the browned bits off the bottom—this is pure flavor! Gradually add the remaining butter while whisking until it’s melted and the sauce starts to thicken a bit. This is when you can stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper.
Bring it all together and simmer
Now it’s time to get all the elements in sync! Add your beautifully seared chicken back into the pan, spooning that luscious garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything simmer on low for a few minutes so the chicken absorbs all that garlicky goodness. Serve up your garlic butter chicken drizzled with more sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon for that perfect finish!
Enjoy every flavorful bite! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal. For more ways to enjoy quick and delicious chicken meals, consider checking out Cooking Light or Serious Eats for some inspiration!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Additional protein options
While garlic butter chicken is a classic favorite, feel free to mix things up with other proteins.
- Turkey breast offers a leaner option that pairs excellently with the rich butter sauce.
- Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs the garlic flavor beautifully, making for a delightful seafood twist.
- For a hearty alternative, consider using pork tenderloin; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Flavor twists with different herbs
Elevate your garlic butter chicken by experimenting with fresh herbs. While parsley shines in this dish, you can introduce other flavors:
- Thyme adds a subtle earthiness that complements the buttery richness beautifully.
- For a bold flavor, try rosemary, but use it sparingly since its aroma can be quite strong.
Feel free to explore these variations, and you'll always have a new favorite version of this beloved dish! For more culinary inspiration, check out Food & Wine or Bon Appétit.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Make Ahead Tips
Preparing garlic butter chicken in advance is a great time-saver! You can marinate the chicken with the garlic and spices a few hours ahead or even overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce beforehand, then simply reheat before serving. Just remember to add a splash of chicken stock to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much while sitting.
Adjusting Richness and Seasoning
If you find your garlic butter chicken too rich, try using half the amount of butter or substituting some with olive oil. This still gives you a delicious sauce while lightening things up. When it comes to seasoning, taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, and don't hesitate to add a bit of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley are a wonderful finishing touch that balance the richness, making your dish feel even more vibrant. For more tips on chicken preparation, check out resources like The Chicken Chick.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Complementary Sides and Accompaniments
Transform your garlic butter chicken into a complete meal with these easy and delicious sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture enhances the dish and echoes the garlic theme.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a pop of color and a nutritious crunch.
- Rice or Quinoa: These are perfect for soaking up the rich garlic butter sauce, making each bite delightful.
- Fresh Salad: A light side with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Consider pairing it with a crisp sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing beverage choice. Check out The Spruce Eats for more side inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for this garlic butter chicken is a breeze! Set aside about 10 minutes to chop, mix, and dredge your chicken, ensuring everything is perfectly prepped for cooking.
Cooking Time
Once your chicken is ready, it's time to cook! The garlic butter chicken takes around 20 minutes on the stovetop. You'll enjoy sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, from prep to plate, you’ll have a delicious and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Bon appétit!
For more meal inspiration, check out this resource on quick and nutritious dinner ideas!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you're looking for a delicious yet simple dinner option, garlic butter chicken is a fantastic choice. Plus, it comes with some impressive nutritional benefits:
Calories
A serving of this garlic butter chicken contains approximately 337 calories, making it a satisfying yet calorie-conscious meal option.
Protein
Packed with about 30.72 grams of protein per serving, this dish is excellent for those wanting to maintain or build muscle.
Sodium
With roughly 690 mg of sodium per serving, it’s wise to adjust seasoning if you're watching your intake. Opt for low-sodium chicken stock for a healthier alternative!
For more insights on the health benefits of garlic and chicken, check out Healthline's article. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're out of butter or prefer a dairy-free option, fear not! You can substitute with olive oil, avocado oil, or ghee. Each will provide a different flavor profile, but they’ll still create a deliciously rich sauce for your garlic butter chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your garlic butter chicken tasting fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, and don’t forget to add a splash of chicken stock to revive that creamy sauce!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're using frozen chicken, just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking. The texture and flavor will be best when using fresh chicken, but defrosted chicken works just fine. For quick thawing, pop it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour.
Want more tips? Check out our resource on how to handle chicken safely.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
In just 30 minutes, this garlic butter chicken transforms your weeknight dinner into a flavorful feast. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for busy young professionals. Try adding your favorite herbs or side dishes to make it your own! Enjoy this delicious meal with loved ones.
For more inspiration, check out our other recipes featuring quick and easy dinner ideas or tips on enhancing your cooking skills. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan & Wooden Spoon
- Shallow Dish (for dredging)
- Sharp Knife & Chopping Board
- Jug (for stock)
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts brought close to room temp
- ¼ cup Plain / All Purpose Flour
- ½ cup Chicken Stock
- 6 tablespoon Unsalted Butter divided into tablespoon chunks
- 2 cloves Garlic minced/finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper plus more to taste
- 1 piece Lemon divided into 4 wedges (to serve)
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine ¼ cup flour with 1 teaspoon garlic powder & salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Butterfly your chicken breasts right through the centre to make 4 even sized breasts. One by one dredge in the flour (press in the flour to get an even coverage), give them a shake then place to one side.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add in the chicken breasts and fry until golden on each side and white/piping hot through the centre, approx 3-5mins each side depending on thickness. Place to one side.
- Turn heat down to a medium and add garlic. Fry for 1-2mins until it just begins to brown, then pour in stock. Use your wooden spoon to scrape off any flavour stuck to the pan, then add in your remaining 5 tablespoon butter. Swiftly whisk as it melts to bind with the stock, it should turn slightly cloudy. Sprinkle in parsley and season to taste with salt & black pepper.
- Allow to simmer for a few mins until it starts to thicken, then turn down the heat to low and add the chicken back in. Spoon over the sauce then serve up with extra sauce drizzled over and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
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