Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
If you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious yet simple midweek dinner, garlic butter chicken is a must-try dish! This recipe offers a delightful balance of rich flavors and tender chicken, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. With just four ingredients needed for the savory garlic butter sauce, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip it up.
What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken a Must-Try Dish?
Garlic butter chicken is not just about taste; it’s also about ease and versatility. In under 30 minutes, you can serve a meal that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort.
- Perfect for busy weeknights: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can go from kitchen to table in no time.
- Ideal for any occasion: Whether it's a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.
- Budget-friendly: Costing around £1.50 or $2 per serving, it’s easy on the wallet.
- Essential comfort food: The combination of garlic and butter transforms chicken into a luscious dish that’s hard to resist.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your dinner game, grab those chicken breasts, and let’s get cooking! For more insights on the benefits of garlic in your diet, check out Healthline.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Creating a mouthwatering garlic butter chicken dish is as simple as gathering a handful of quality ingredients that pack a punch in flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Start with 2 x 9oz/250g chicken breasts, ideally brought close to room temperature to ensure even cooking. Feel free to butterfly them for quicker cooking!
- Plain/All-Purpose Flour: Use ¼ cup (40g) for dredging the chicken, which gives it that deliciously crisp crust.
- Chicken Stock: Measure out ½ cup (120ml) to create a rich base for the sauce. You can opt for homemade or low-sodium stock for added control over the flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoon (90g) will create that signature buttery sauce you crave—just slice it into smaller chunks for easier melting.
- Garlic: You'll need 2 cloves, minced to infuse the dish with a robust garlic flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: A tablespoon of finely diced parsley adds a beautiful fresh note.
- Olive Oil: Use 1 tablespoon to help sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: Just a teaspoon each of garlic powder, salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper makes for perfect seasoning.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your garlic butter chicken is on its way to being a hit at the dinner table! For additional cooking tips and tricks, check out expert advice from The Culinary Institute of America.
Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken
Cooking a delightful meal like garlic butter chicken can transport you to flavour heaven with its rich, buttery goodness. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step 1: Gather your ingredients
Before you dive in, make sure you have everything you need at hand. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 2x 9oz/250g Chicken Breasts - Bring them close to room temperature for even cooking.
- ¼ cup/40g Plain/All-Purpose Flour
- ½ cup/120ml Chicken Stock
- 6 tbsp/90g Unsalted Butter (divided into tablespoon chunks)
- 2 cloves of Garlic (minced)
- Fresh Parsley (finely diced)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1 Lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
With this list, you’re well on your way to creating a sumptuous dish. You might already have many of these ingredients in your pantry, but it never hurts to double-check!
Step 2: Prepare the chicken for cooking
To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, start by butterflying the breasts. This means slicing them right through the centre to create four even pieces.
Now, dredge each piece in a mixture of flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper placed in a shallow dish. Press the flour onto the chicken to get an even coating, giving it a nice crispy exterior. Feel free to ask yourself, "Is it too much flour?" It shouldn't stick, just lightly coat.
Step 3: Cook the chicken to perfection
Heat your large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it's shimmering, gently add the chicken. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side until they are beautifully golden brown and piping hot internally.
The perfect sear is key here! If you make sure they are cooked evenly, they’ll be juicy and tender — just the way you want them.
Step 4: Make the garlic butter sauce
With the chicken out of the pan, lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just starting to brown.
Pour in your chicken stock, scraping all the delicious bits from the pan as you go. This is where the magic happens! Add in the remaining 5 tablespoon of butter, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce takes on a creamy appearance. Toss in fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. This will be the fragrant garlic butter sauce that elevates your chicken to the next level.
Step 5: Combine and serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce generously over it. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to meld those gorgeous flavours together.
When serving, don’t forget the lemon wedges — a little squeeze of fresh lemon juice will brighten the whole dish and balance the richness of that delectable garlic butter sauce.
Voilà! You’ve created a mouthwatering plate of garlic butter chicken that’s ready to impress. Remember, cooking should be joyous, and sharing this meal with loved ones makes it all the more special. For more tips on perfecting chicken recipes, check out Serious Eats’ chicken cooking techniques for comprehensive guides!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your garlic butter chicken by using fresh herbs! Simply swap in finely chopped thyme, rosemary, or even oregano alongside parsley to add aromatic depth. This variation not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color to your dish. Fresh herbs like these have active compounds that can support overall wellness—did you know that thyme is known for its antibacterial properties? Embrace your inner chef by experimenting with herb combinations to find your perfect taste!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Vegetables
Make your garlic butter chicken a one-pan wonder! Add seasonal vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or spinach. Simply toss them in with the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful balance of protein and veggies. Not only does this add nutrition, but it also makes dinner prep a breeze. Plus, the veggies soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience! If you’re curious about more meal prep tips, you can check resources from The Spruce Eats for inspiration.
Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Choosing the right chicken
When making garlic butter chicken, opt for high-quality chicken breasts that are plump and fresh, ideally sourced from local butchers or trusted brands. If possible, look for chicken that is organic or free-range for better flavor. Remember, bringing your chicken to room temperature before cooking helps it cook evenly, ensuring a juicy finish.
Importance of fresh ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving that rich, delicious flavor profile. Fresh garlic adds a punch that powdered versions just can't match. Pair it with vibrant herbs like parsley, which can elevate your dish and add beautiful color. For the best tasting results, avoid pre-packaged or stale ingredients, as they can dull the flavor of your garlic butter chicken. Want to know more? Check out this guide on why fresh ingredients matter.
Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Pairing with sides
When it comes to serving garlic butter chicken, the right sides can really enhance your meal. Consider pairing it with:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some color and crunch.
- A light mixed salad for a refreshing contrast. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for an extra zing.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that divine garlic butter sauce—who can resist?
These complementary flavors will elevate your dinner and keep things deliciously balanced.
Presentation ideas
Make your garlic butter chicken truly shine by focusing on presentation. Here are a few tips:
- Use a large, rustic platter to serve the chicken, drizzling the sauce generously over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.
- Serve it alongside those vibrant sides, laying everything out in an inviting manner.
With these simple touches, your dish will not only taste great but look like a feast fit for a gourmet dinner!
Tips for Making Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
Avoiding Overcooking the Chicken
To achieve juicy and tender garlic butter chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid guessing. Keep a close eye on the chicken in the pan; normally, 3–5 minutes per side is ideal, but cooking time may vary based on thickness. If your chicken is overcooked, it could become dry, compromising that buttery goodness you've worked so hard to create!
Adjusting Seasoning
Seasoning is key to elevating your garlic butter chicken. Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, but don’t hesitate to adjust according to your personal taste. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s difficult to take away! A quick taste test of the sauce before adding the chicken will help you find the perfect balance. Fresh herbs like parsley lend a wonderful fragrance; consider parsley to brighten up your dish!
For more tips on chicken prep, you might find this USDA guide on poultry cooking useful.
Time details for Garlic Butter Chicken
Preparation time
In just 10 minutes, you can prepare the ingredients for this mouthwatering garlic butter chicken. It’s a simple and straightforward process, making it ideal for even the busiest weeknights.
Cooking time
Once prepped, it only takes about 20 minutes to cook. That's just enough time to let the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring that your chicken is perfectly tender and juicy.
Total time
All in all, from start to finish, this amazing garlic butter chicken will take you approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick midweek dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor!
This recipe is not just about quickness; it’s about bringing restaurant-quality flavor into your home. For more time-saving tips on weeknight meals, check out resources like The Kitchn or BBC Good Food. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you indulge in this garlic butter chicken, it's great to know what nutrients you're getting. Here’s a quick overview so you can enjoy every bite without a worry:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 337 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable choice for dinner.
Protein
You'll benefit from a hearty 30.72 grams of protein per serving, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health—perfect for those busy weeknights.
Sodium
With around 690 mg of sodium, this dish offers a flavor kick while remaining within typical dietary recommendations. Just be mindful if you're watching your sodium intake!
For further details on healthy eating or to enhance your culinary knowledge, check out resources from the American Heart Association or the USDA Dietary Guidelines. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken for garlic butter chicken, but it's important to thaw it properly first. The best way is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, you can use a microwave to defrost it, but be cautious to not start cooking the edges. Thawed chicken will cook more evenly, ensuring you achieve that golden outer layer while keeping the inside juicy.
What are some good sides to serve with garlic butter chicken?
Pairing sides with your garlic butter chicken can enhance the meal immensely. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A warm, buttery rice pilaf
- Mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce
- A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette
These options ensure that your meal is well-rounded and flavorful!
How can I customize the flavor of the sauce?
The beauty of garlic butter chicken is its versatility! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. For example:
- Add Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for an aromatic twist.
- A dash of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
- For a bit of tang, mix in some Dijon mustard or honey.
Get creative and tailor the flavors to suit your taste buds!
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
In summary, this garlic butter chicken recipe is not only delightfully simple but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, its rich garlic essence paired with buttery goodness will impress your taste buds. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new dinner favorite that’s sure to satisfy!
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan & Wooden Spoon
- Shallow Dish (for dredging)
- Sharp Knife & Chopping Board
- Jug (for stock)
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 9oz 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 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 (optional).
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