Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
When it comes to comfort food, garlic butter chicken reigns supreme. Imagine thin, tender chicken breasts, sautéed to golden perfection and bathed in a luscious sauce of butter, garlic, and a hint of lemon. What makes this dish simply irresistible is its blend of flavors and textures—a crunchy exterior and a creamy, velvety base that brings each bite to life.
What makes garlic butter chicken irresistible?
One of the key elements that elevate this dish is the aromatic garlic, which infuses both the chicken and the sauce with its rich essence. According to the USDA, garlic has been linked to numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and heart health support. Coupled with the savory sensation of butter, you get a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Add a splash of lemon juice and some fresh herbs, and you’ve got a balanced meal that’ll impress anyone at your dinner table. It pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or pasta, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. So, are you ready to dive into making this delightful garlic butter chicken? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential ingredients for a sumptuous dish
To create a mouthwatering garlic butter chicken, you’ll need a mix of staple ingredients that work in harmony to deliver rich flavor. Here’s a list of what you should gather:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: These form the base of our dish, providing tenderness and protein.
- All-purpose flour: This helps achieve that delightful golden crust.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Vegetable oil and salted butter: For sautéing and adding that buttery flavor.
- Chicken broth: To enrich the sauce and keep the chicken moist.
- Lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic: These provide the vibrant flavor and aromatic essence that elevate the dish.
- Heavy cream: To give the sauce its luxurious, creamy texture.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
If you’re looking to take your garlic butter chicken to the next level, consider incorporating these optional ingredients:
- Garlic powder: For an extra punch of garlic flavor.
- Fresh or dried thyme: Adds an aromatic note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Sliced garlic: For that double garlic hit, enhancing the richness of the sauce.
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges: Perfect for garnishing and adding brightness to each plate.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Don’t forget to check out this guide on homemade chicken broth for a flavorful base.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and aroma. Follow these simple steps to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
Prep the chicken
Begin by prepping the chicken breasts — this sets the stage for a juicy and tender outcome. Trim any visible fat from 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and, if you want them to cook evenly, slice them in half widthwise. Aim for pieces that are no thicker than one inch. This simple step helps them cook faster and absorb all those delicious flavors from the garlic butter sauce you’ll be making shortly!
Dredge the chicken in seasoned flour
Next, it’s time to coat the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in this seasoned flour mixture until well coated. This will give your chicken a beautiful crust and help lock in moisture when it’s cooking.
Sear the chicken for golden perfection
In a cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil along with 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, carefully add your coated chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This step is essential for flavor development, as those brown bits will enhance your garlic butter chicken sauce later on. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Create the garlic butter sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and add in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and season with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Scrape any flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the skillet as you stir. Allow this mixture to simmer for about five minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, add in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook until everything is heated through, which should take about 2 minutes.
Combine and bake for the final touch
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Place your seared chicken back in, spooning some of that heavenly sauce over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle the thinly sliced garlic on top for that extra burst of flavor! Now, it’s time to bake at 400°F (204°C) for about 10-20 minutes, until the thickest piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing finish. Whether served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta, this garlic butter chicken is sure to impress!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is already a winner, but have you considered adding a twist to elevate its flavors? Here are two delightful variations that will tantalize your taste buds!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs
Infuse your garlic butter chicken with fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano. Simply toss in your favorite herbs during the sauce-making step. Not only will this add complexity, but the aroma will transport you to a quaint Italian kitchen. Fresh herbs are packed with antioxidants, making them a delicious, healthy addition.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon and Capers
For a bright and zesty twist, try garlic butter chicken with lemon and capers. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and fold in a tablespoon of capers to the sauce. The citrusy tang will cut through the richness of the butter, creating a refreshing balance. Plus, capers give a delightful briny flavor, enhancing the overall dish. This combo is perfect alongside a light arugula salad or some steamed asparagus!
Experimenting with these variations not only keeps things interesting in the kitchen but also lets you personalize this classic dish to suit your mood or occasion!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Tips for Perfect Chicken
To achieve juicy and tender chicken in your Garlic Butter Chicken, make sure to slice larger chicken breasts thinly so they cook evenly. Dredging the chicken in seasoned flour adds a delightful crust that locks in moisture. Searing is crucial—don’t skip this step! It creates that beautiful golden color and rich flavor. Here’s a pro tip: always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
Notes on Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! If you're out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half and half for a lighter alternative. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard or even a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch. These substitutions will still keep the essence of your garlic butter chicken intact—delicious and satisfying!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Pairing with Pasta or Grains
For an indulgent experience, serve your garlic butter chicken over a bed of fluffy pasta, like fettuccine or penne, to soak up every delicious bit of sauce. Alternatively, consider pairing it with grains such as brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option that still satisfies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some creamy polenta for a comforting twist.
Accompaniments that Elevate the Meal
Enhance your meal with sides that complement the flavors of your garlic butter chicken. Steamed green vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, bring a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate. A simple side salad tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. For something heartier, consider garlic mashed potatoes; they echo the delightful garlic elements in the chicken while adding a creamy texture.
Each of these suggestions plays well with the flavors of garlic butter chicken, making your dinner a memorable occasion!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you’re eager to whip up a delicious meal, knowing the time commitment is key! This garlic butter chicken dish is quick and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Preparation Time
Get ready in just 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken.
Cooking Time
The cooking process takes about 30 minutes. This includes searing, simmering, and baking the chicken to perfection.
Total Time
Altogether, you’re looking at a simple 50 minutes from start to finish, meaning you'll have a delightful dish ready in no time! Enjoy this tasty meal with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or pasta for a rounded dinner experience.
For more tips on preparation and serving ideas, check out Delicious Dinner Recipes.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
Calories per Serving
Indulging in garlic butter chicken feels good, especially knowing each serving packs around 595 calories. This hearty meal combines rich flavors without skimping on satisfaction, making it a perfect dinner choice after a busy day.
Carbohydrates and Protein Content
In terms of macros, garlic butter chicken offers a solid nutritional profile:
- Carbohydrates: Only 16 grams, making it a low-carb option.
- Protein: A generous 40 grams per serving ensures you’re fueling your body with quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
For more on the importance of protein in your diet, check out Healthline’s guide on protein sources. Impress your friends and family with a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
How do I know when the chicken is done?
To ensure your garlic butter chicken is safe to eat and perfectly tender, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You're aiming for at least 165 °F (74 °C) in the thickest part of the breast. If you don’t have a thermometer on hand, you can cut into the chicken: the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink remaining.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This garlic butter chicken can be prepped ahead. Just follow the recipe until you bake it, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, you can bake it straight from the fridge, but be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What are the best sides to serve with it?
A delicious accompaniment can elevate your meal. Consider serving your garlic butter chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, or a fresh mixed salad for a well-rounded dinner. For a twist, try pairing it with pasta to soak up the rich sauce!
Feel free to explore some great side ideas over at The Cooking Network.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a delightful dish that's not only simple to prepare but also packed with incredible flavor that will impress any dinner guest. Whether you serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even a bed of sautéed vegetables, this recipe offers versatility that keeps mealtime exciting. Try this garlic butter chicken for an unforgettable experience.
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients
Poultry
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Dry Ingredients
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Fats
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons salted butter divided
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 5 cloves thinly sliced garlic
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- black pepper to taste
- lemon wedges
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 °F (204 °C).
- Trim chicken of visible fat. If using two large breasts, slice them in half widthwise to make four thinner breasts. They should be no thicker than 1 inch.
- In a bowl, mix flour, kosher salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in the seasoned flour until well coated.
- Heat oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat in cast iron or other ovenproof skillet.
- Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides; about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium low. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, kosher salt and garlic powder. Scrape any browned bits from the chicken and stir until slightly reduced and starting to thicken (about 5 minutes).
- Add in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted, and then stir in the heavy cream. Cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Remove skillet from heat. Add chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top and top with sliced garlic.
- Bake in oven for 10-20 minutes, until the internal temperature of the thickest chicken breast reaches 165 °F (74 °C). Remove from oven and garnish with parsley, lemon wedges and black pepper.
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