Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the twang of garlic together with the rich flavor of butter, making it a favorite for many. Whether you’re coming home after a long day at work or simply craving a homemade meal, this recipe checks all the boxes for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Why Garlic Butter Chicken is a Game-Changer for Busy Professionals
As a young professional, you probably juggle multiple responsibilities daily—work commitments, social life, maybe even a little side hustle. So, when it comes to dinner, you want something fast, delicious, and easy to prepare. Garlic Butter Chicken excels in all these areas.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time, this dish can fit nicely into your busy schedule.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using only four main ingredients for the sauce, you’ll save time at the grocery store and in the kitchen.
- Gourmet Taste: The rich, buttery sauce combined with the fresh notes of garlic and parsley elevates your weeknight dinner to something special.
Want to learn more about the benefits of cooking at home? Check out this thought-provoking article that dives into healthy cooking habits.
Make Garlic Butter Chicken your go-to recipe, and let it transform your midweek meals into something extraordinary!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential Ingredients for a Rich Sauce
To elevate your garlic butter chicken dish, you'll need just a handful of essential ingredients that come together to create a luscious sauce. Here’s what you need:
- Unsalted Butter: The star of the show! You’ll be using 6 tablespoons, which helps create that rich, buttery sauce. Using unsalted gives you control over the saltiness.
- Chicken Stock: A generous ½ cup will add depth to the sauce. Low-sodium varieties can keep the salt levels just right.
- Garlic: The more, the merrier! Two cloves, minced, will deliver that unmistakable garlicky flavor you crave.
- Fresh Parsley: A tablespoon of this finely chopped herb brings brightness, balancing out the richness.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Once you’ve got the essentials down, feel free to get creative! Here are some optional add-ins to consider:
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, you could also experiment with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Chili Flakes: A sprinkle can add a pleasant kick if you're in the mood for something spicy.
By mixing and matching, you can personalize your garlic butter chicken and impress your family or dinner guests! For more culinary inspiration, check out this garlic recipes guide.
Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken
This delicious garlic butter chicken recipe is not only quick to whip up but also bursting with flavor. Let’s break down the preparation steps to ensure your dinner turns out just right.
Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients and make things easier. Here’s what you need:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- ¼ cup of plain / all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of chicken stock
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter (make sure it’s divided into chunks)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Once you have everything laid out, take a moment to bring the chicken breasts to room temperature. This helps them cook more evenly, ensuring all that juicy goodness stays intact.
Dredge Chicken for a Crispy Skirt
To achieve that irresistible crispy layer, you’ll want to dredge your chicken properly. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing through the center to create four even pieces. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it in for an even coverage. Give them a gentle shake to remove excess flour before setting them aside. This simple technique not only adds texture but also helps in locking in moisture during the cooking process.
Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of butter along with a tablespoon of olive oil. The blend of fats helps enhance the flavor and gets your chicken nice and crispy. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and let them sear without moving them for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Don’t rush this step! A good sear creates that delicious flavor in every bite.
Create the Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it starts to brown. Then pour in the chicken stock, scraping any tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the remaining butter and whisk until it’s melted and the sauce becomes slightly cloudy. This is where the magic happens!
Return Chicken to the Pan and Serve
Once your sauce is ready, return the chicken to the pan. Allow it to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to soak up those garlic-y flavors. Sprinkle the fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve your garlic butter chicken with additional sauce drizzled over the top, and don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side for that zesty kick!
And there you have it—a truly delightful and easy-to-make dish that will give your midweek dinners a gourmet touch. Enjoy every luscious bite! For more tips on getting the best out of your ingredients, check out this resource on cooking chicken perfectly.
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
If you love a zesty twist, lemon garlic butter chicken is a delightful option! Simply add the juice and zest of one lemon to your garlic butter sauce. This brightens the dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the garlic flavor. Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing finish; it’s perfect for summer dinners. Check out more citrus-inspired recipes here.
Herbed Garlic Butter Chicken
For a fragrant herb-infused version, try herbed garlic butter chicken. Incorporate a medley of fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano into the butter sauce. This variation adds depth, making each bite aromatic and flavorful. Mixing it up not only elevates the dish but also showcases your culinary creativity. Explore more herb pairings here.
Cooking Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce
To elevate your garlic butter chicken, ensure your butter is perfectly measured. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the seasoning. As the sauce simmers, stir gently to create a silky texture. A touch of freshness can be added with herbs—try parsley or even fresh thyme for variation. Don't forget to taste as you go; adjusting seasoning at this stage can make all the difference.
Substitutions to Consider
If you’re out of chicken stock, feel free to use vegetable stock for a lighter flavor. Need to cut calories? Swap out butter for a blend of olive oil and a bit of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Instead of chicken breasts, thighs work beautifully too, adding juiciness to your dish. Get creative and make this recipe your own! For more ideas on ingredient substitutions, check out this informative article on cooking swaps.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Best Side Dishes to Pair
To truly elevate your garlic butter chicken experience, consider serving it alongside light and complementary side dishes. Here are a few favorites:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
- Quinoa or Rice: Both options are great for soaking up the rich garlic butter sauce, making them a perfect match.
Garnishes to Elevate Your Plate
Enhancing the visual appeal and taste of your garlic butter chicken is easy with the right garnishes:
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshens the flavors.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over, adding a zesty kick that cuts through the richness.
- Chili Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes can add a nice contrast to the savory dish.
With these serving suggestions, your garlic butter chicken will shine at any dining table! For more side dish ideas, check out this vegetable pairing guide.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep Time
Getting this delicious garlic butter chicken ready will take you about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken. Make sure to have everything measured out to keep the cooking process smooth!
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, cooking will take approximately 20 minutes. You’ll fry the chicken to golden perfection and whip up that creamy garlic butter sauce in no time!
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal on the table! Perfect for a busy evening when you crave something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
For more guidance on meal timing, check out resources like USDA's Food Safety for cooking tips!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you're whipping up a delicious garlic butter chicken, it's helpful to know what you're feeding your body. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional highlights:
Calories
Each serving of this flavorful chicken dish comes in at around 337 calories, making it a satisfying option for dinner without going overboard.
Protein
With approximately 30.72g of protein per serving, this meal is both filling and perfect for muscle maintenance. Lean chicken breast is a great source of essential amino acids.
Sodium
The dish contains about 690mg of sodium, so keep an eye on additional salt, especially if you're monitoring your intake. Pairing it with a fresh salad can balance out the flavors without compromising your health goals.
For more tips on how to enjoy your meals healthily, you can check out resources like Harvard Health for insights into nutrition.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
Modifications for Dietary Restrictions
If you're looking to adapt this garlic butter chicken for dietary needs, here are some easy swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Low-Carb/Keto: You can omit the flour altogether and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum.
Making Garlic Butter Chicken in Advance
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter chicken well ahead of time. Cook the chicken and the sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat and combine them in a pan over low heat.
Perfect Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Pair your garlic butter chicken with sides that complement its richness. Here are some fantastic options:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a nice crunch.
- Rice or Quinoa: These grains soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad can balance the flavors.
For more insights on cooking chicken, check out this resource on chicken recipes.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
In summary, this garlic butter chicken recipe is a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying. Try it with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad for balance and extra nutrients!
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan & Wooden Spoon
- Shallow Dish (for dredging)
- Sharp Knife & Chopping Board
- Jug (for stock)
- Tongs
Ingredients
Chicken & Sauce Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts 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 (see notes)
- 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
Instructions
Cooking 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.
Leave a Reply