Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
If you're seeking the ultimate homemade meal that combines simplicity with bold flavor, look no further than garlic butter chicken. This dish is a powerhouse of taste, making it a favorite for anyone craving something comforting yet quick to whip up. Imagine juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, golden sauce that's equal parts buttery and garlicky.
One of the reasons garlic butter chicken stands out is its minimalist ingredient list— with just four key components for the sauce. This makes it perfect for midweek dinners where time is of the essence but taste remains a priority. Whether you're cooking for a casual weeknight family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe guarantees satisfaction.
Plus, the versatility of garlic butter chicken means you can pair it with a delightful green salad or your favorite mashed potatoes, catering to various palates. Did you know garlic is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, including boosting the immune system? So, indulge in this delectable dish while enjoying the added perks of its wholesome ingredients.
Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this delightful cooking creation!
Why Garlic Butter Chicken is the Perfect Homemade Meal Choice
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Rich flavors without extensive cooking.
- Few Ingredients: Simplifies shopping and prep.
- Versatile Pairings: Complements a variety of side dishes.
For more delicious recipes, check out this guide on different ways to prepare chicken!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential ingredients for a delicious garlic butter chicken
When it comes to creating a mouthwatering garlic butter chicken, having the right ingredients is key. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken Breasts: 2x 9oz/250g, ideally brought close to room temperature.
- Plain/All Purpose Flour: ¼ cup (40g) for dredging; it helps create that lovely crust.
- Chicken Stock: ½ cup (120ml) to bring depth to the sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoon (90g), divided – this is where the rich, buttery flavor comes from!
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – you can never have too much garlic!
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, for cooking the chicken.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Optional ingredients to elevate your dish
While the essentials will get you a fantastic result, adding a few optional ingredients can take your garlic butter chicken to the next level:
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp, finely diced, adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze some juice over your chicken before serving; it brightens the dish beautifully!
- Herbs like Thyme or Rosemary: While parsley is classic, feel free to try these for a more aromatic profile. Just remember to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your family! For more tips on using fresh herbs, check out the Herb Society of America. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken
Cooking a delicious garlic butter chicken dish is simpler than you might think! Follow these easy steps, and you'll have a delightful meal ready in no time.
Gather and prepare your ingredients
To kick things off, let’s get organized. Gather the following ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand before you start cooking:
- 2 chicken breasts (9oz each)
- ¼ cup plain flour
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- A tablespoon of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Seasonings: garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
- A lemon (for serving)
Lay everything out on your kitchen counter, and don’t forget to bring the chicken to room temperature. This step speeds up the cooking process and helps with even cooking.
Dredge the chicken breasts
Next, we’re going to prepare the chicken. Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, so you get four evenly-sized portions, which will cook faster and more uniformly.
Take a shallow dish and mix together the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure they're well-coated. This step not only adds flavor but also helps create that delicious golden crust when you cook them.
Cook the chicken to golden perfection
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the fat is hot and shimmering, add your dredged chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side until they're lovely and golden. Make sure they are cooked through by checking the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (75°C). Once done, set them aside.
Create the rich garlic butter sauce
Now for the star of the show: the garlic butter sauce! In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes, just until it's lightly browned and fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, using your wooden spoon to scrape off any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Add the remaining butter to the pan and whisk it together with the stock until it beautifully emulsifies and clouds slightly. Toss in the fresh parsley and season to taste.
Combine chicken and sauce for serving
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together! Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, return the chicken to the pan, spooning the luscious garlic butter sauce over each piece. Serve this garlic butter chicken hot, drizzling extra sauce on top and garnishing with lemon wedges, which add a refreshing zest.
This quick and easy meal is sure to impress your friends or family. Enjoy your garlic butter chicken with a great side salad or over some fluffy rice! Bon appétit!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
For a luxurious twist, try making a creamy garlic butter chicken. Simply add in ½ cup of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce after the chicken is cooked. This will create a rich and velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. Pair it with pasta or rice for a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without much effort. Who doesn’t love a bit of creaminess to elevate a classic dish, right?
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken
If you're a fan of heat, a spicy garlic butter chicken variation might be just what you need. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic as it cooks. This will give your dish a delightful kick and perfectly complement the buttery garlic flavor. For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mix of chili powder and lime juice before cooking. Feeling adventurous? Serve it up with a side of spicy garlic butter sauce for dipping! For more ideas on spice pairings, check out this PepperScale guide.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential tips for perfecting the sauce
To achieve that mouth-watering garlic butter chicken sauce, ensure your butter is added gradually after the garlic is sautéed. This helps prevent burning and deepens the flavor profile. Whisking the melted butter into the chicken stock creates that beautiful emulsion. For a fresh twist, don’t forget to sprinkle in some finely chopped fresh parsley for that burst of color and flavor!
Recommended chicken cooking techniques
For perfectly cooked chicken, opt for butterflying the breasts. This technique allows for even cooking and ensures no raw spots remain. Sear the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown on both sides—this should take about 3-5 minutes per side. Once done, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to keep it juicy. For more cooking techniques, visit Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Best sides to pair with garlic butter chicken
Serving garlic butter chicken is a delicious experience, but it can be elevated even further with the right sides. Consider pairing it with:
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh crunch.
- Creamy mashed potatoes: The buttery richness complements the chicken wonderfully.
- Rice or quinoa: A great way to soak up that savory garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic bread: If you can’t get enough garlic, this side is a must!
Ideas for garnishing your dish
Enhance your garlic butter chicken with some simple garnishes:
- Fresh parsley: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges: Offer a wedge for a zesty finish — a squeeze brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Chili flakes: If you like a kick, add a pinch before serving.
By keeping these suggestions in mind, your meal will not only taste amazing but look stunning too! For even more inspiration, check out this guide on perfect side dishes.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your delicious garlic butter chicken takes about 10 minutes. During this time, you’ll gather your ingredients, butterfly the chicken, and dredge it in a flavorful flour mix. It's a straightforward process, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking Time
Once prepped, cooking is a breeze at 20 minutes. You'll fry the chicken to a golden finish and whip up a mouthwatering garlic-butter sauce in no time. This quick step ensures your dish is both rich in flavor and ready to serve before you know it!
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delectable dinner that’s bound to please. From prep to table, this garlic butter chicken dish is all about efficiency without sacrificing flavor. Make sure to pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
For more tips on quick dinners, check out this handy guide on weeknight meals. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
When it comes to enjoying garlic butter chicken, knowing its nutritional content can help you make informed choices. Here’s a quick overview:
Calories
Each serving of garlic butter chicken contains approximately 337 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable option for dinner.
Protein
This dish is packed with about 30.7g of protein per serving. It’s a great source for those looking to boost their protein intake, especially after a workout.
Fat
With 19.5g of fat, garlic butter chicken includes healthy fats primarily from the unsalted butter and olive oil used, providing a rich and flavorful experience.
For a deeper dive into healthy eating, check out the USDA's dietary guidelines for insights on balanced meals!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, chicken thighs work wonderfully too. They offer fantastic flavor and can be more forgiving in cooking time due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary; thighs often take a tad longer to ensure they're cooked through.
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you're looking to lighten up your garlic butter chicken, consider these tips:
- Use less butter: Reduce the amount of butter and supplement with chicken broth for sautéing.
- Whole wheat flour: Swap the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some broccoli, spinach, or peppers to boost nutrients and fiber. Check out ideas from Harvard Health.
What are the best sides to serve with garlic butter chicken?
Pair your garlic butter chicken with:
- Rice or quinoa: These complement the sauce beautifully.
- Green salad: A light, fresh salad balances the rich flavors.
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or mashed potatoes can bring the meal together perfectly!
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
In summary, Garlic Butter Chicken is an ideal choice for those seeking a delicious and uncomplicated weeknight meal. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, this dish will have your taste buds dancing in no time. Pair it with fresh veggies or a side salad for a complete and satisfying dinner!
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
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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