Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is one of those delightful recipes that effortlessly transforms a simple weeknight dinner into something extraordinary. With its rich, buttery flavor and a hint of garlicky goodness, it's no wonder this dish has become a midweek favorite for many home cooks. What elevates garlic butter chicken even more is how quick and easy it is to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something satisfying yet uncomplicated. With just four core ingredients in the sauce, you can whip up this dish with ease. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of veggies or rice, making it the perfect blank canvas to cater to your personal taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability; you can easily throw in extra herbs, swap in different proteins, or add a splash of citrus for that extra zing.
So, if you're ready to make a meal that pleases everyone at the table and doesn’t break the bank—garlic butter chicken is your go-to solution. Don’t forget, for more tips on perfecting your chicken dishes, check out this resource.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
When it comes to making delicious garlic butter chicken, simplicity is key! This dish requires essential ingredients that come together to create rich flavors without a lot of fuss. Here's what you'll need:
Essential ingredients for flavor and ease
- Chicken Breasts: 2x 9oz/250g, brought close to room temperature for even cooking.
- Plain/All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup (40g) for dredging, which helps create a lovely crispy texture.
- Chicken Stock: ½ cup (120ml) adds depth and brings all the flavors together.
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoon (90g), divided into chunks to create that luxurious garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for that savory kick.
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp, finely diced for a fresh finish.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon to enhance cooking flavor.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper to season.
If you want to elevate the dish even more, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving! For more tips on kitchen essentials, check out The Kitchn. Happy cooking!
Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken
Cooking can feel daunting sometimes, but whipping up this garlic butter chicken in just 30 minutes will make you feel like a kitchen pro! Let’s break it down into some easy steps to ensure you achieve that creamy, garlicky goodness you crave.
Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you jump into cooking, take a few moments to gather and prep your ingredients. You’ll need:
- Chicken breasts: Two 9oz/250g pieces, brought close to room temperature for even cooking.
- Flour: Approximately ¼ cup (40g).
- Chicken stock: About ½ cup (120ml) is perfect for that flavorful sauce.
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons, which gives the dish its luxurious richness.
- Garlic: Just 2 cloves, minced or finely diced, for that punchy flavor.
- Fresh parsley, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
A quick tip: prepping all ingredients beforehand will streamline your cooking process. Plus, there’s nothing like the aroma of fresh garlic sizzling in the kitchen!
Dredge the Chicken for a Crispy Coating
Next, let’s dredge! In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, and seasonings—salt and pepper. Butterfly your chicken breasts to create four evenly sized pieces. Individually coat them in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to ensure an even covering. This step not only adds a rich flavor but will also give your garlic butter chicken that perfect crispy texture when seared.
Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat up 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the dredged chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. If you’re unsure, cut into one to check: it should be white and piping hot inside!
Create the Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
With the chicken resting off to the side, reduce the heat to medium and toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it's lightly golden—this is where the magic happens! Pour in your chicken stock and scrape the pan with a wooden spoon to capture those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. The next component? The remaining 5 tablespoons of butter! Whisk it in until you see the sauce become slightly cloudy, and finish with freshly chopped parsley.
Combine and Serve
Finally, return the chicken to the pan, gently spooning the rich sauce over each piece. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking. Serve up with lemon wedges on the side; a light squeeze adds an excellent zesty twist that complements the richness of the garlic butter chicken.
Enjoy your meal, and don't forget to invite friends over—this dish is sure to impress! To elevate your dinner experience, consider pairing your chicken with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. Happy cooking!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Experimenting with garlic butter chicken opens the door to exciting flavor profiles. Here are two delightful variations to elevate your dinner experience!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
If you enjoy a zesty kick, try adding the brightness of lemon. Simply incorporate the juice of half a lemon into the garlic butter sauce and add lemon zest for an extra fresh note. Serve it with lemon wedges for squeezing just before diving in. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also balances the richness of the butter, making it a refreshing option.
Herb-Infused Garlic Butter Chicken
For herb lovers, infuse your garlic butter chicken with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even basil. Add these herbs into the butter sauce while it simmers, allowing their fragrant oils to meld with the garlic. A handful of chopped herbs can transform your dish into a culinary masterpiece, bringing a garden-fresh quality that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Each variation offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this classic dish! If you're looking for more ingredient ideas, check out sites like BBC Good Food for inspiration.
Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Ensuring the right chicken temperature
To make sure your garlic butter chicken is perfectly cooked, always check the internal temperature! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. This guarantees it's succulent and juicy, avoiding that dreaded dryness.
Flavor boosting tips
Elevate the flavors in your garlic butter chicken by using fresh garlic and herbs. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a squeeze of lemon balances the richness beautifully. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick or some freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor depth. The right seasonings can take this dish from good to extraordinary!
For more insights on cooking chicken correctly, check out The USDA's Poultry Guidelines.
Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Ideal side dishes to complement the meal
Pair your Garlic Butter Chicken with sides that enhance its rich, buttery flavors. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, they soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: A light, crunchy option that cuts through the richness.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the dish beautifully.
For a fresh touch, a simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can brighten up your plate.
Creative plating ideas
Elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken presentation with some thoughtful plating. Place the chicken on a stylish white plate, drizzling it with the golden sauce and sprinkling fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Add your chosen sides around the chicken, and garnish with lemon wedges for an extra touch.
Don’t forget to use contrasting colors and textures to make your meal visually appealing. For inspiration, check out this plating guide for more tips!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Get your kitchen ready in just 10 minutes! This part is all about gathering your ingredients, butterflying the chicken breasts, and coating them in that delicious flour mix.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking process will take about 20 minutes. It’s a quick sauté and simmer, allowing those garlicky flavors to infuse beautifully.
Total Time
Your total time from start to finish is a mere 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet effortless!
With such a short time commitment, this garlic butter chicken makes the ideal weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor. So why not give it a try? With minimal effort and maximum taste, you'll be adding this to your regular rotation in no time!
For more tips on meal prepping or quick dinner ideas, check out resources like BBC Good Food or Bon Appétit.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
When whipping up this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken, it's important to be mindful of its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick overview:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 337 calories, making it a hearty yet satisfying option for dinner.
Protein
This flavorful dish packs in about 30.72g of protein per serving, thanks to the chicken, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
With roughly 690mg of sodium, it's a good idea to balance your intake throughout the day, especially if you're watching your salt consumption.
For more detailed information, consider checking resources like the USDA FoodData Central to gain insights on the nutritional benefits of ingredients you enjoy in your cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; however, it’s important to thaw them beforehand for even cooking. A quick way to do this is by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about an hour. Alternatively, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual for your garlic butter chicken.
What can I substitute for chicken stock?
If you don’t have chicken stock on hand, you can easily substitute it with vegetable stock or even water. While water might lack flavor, consider adding a touch of soy sauce or miso paste to enhance the taste. Homemade broth is another fantastic option, and you can find tips on making it easily at Cook's Illustrated.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make your garlic butter chicken healthier, consider the following tips:
- Use less butter: Reducing the butter to 3 tablespoons can significantly lower the fat content without compromising flavor.
- Swap for whole wheat flour: This option adds fiber and nutrients.
- Serve it with veggies: Pair the dish with steamed broccoli, spinach, or a fresh salad for added nutrients and a colorful plate!
By integrating these changes, you’ll have a deliciously guilt-free meal that still captures the essence of that rich, garlicky goodness.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
In conclusion, this garlic butter chicken recipe is a fantastic choice for a delicious and satisfying midweek dinner. With just four simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy a rich, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed veggies to elevate your dining experience.
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan
- Wooden spoon
- Shallow dish
- sharp knife
- Chopping Board
- Jug
- tongs
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts brought close to room temp
- ¼ cup Plain 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 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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