Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy stovetop recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. The standout feature of this dish is its simple preparation combined with a burst of flavor from the garlic and apple vinegar, making it an instant favorite in any household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Flavor Packed: The rich garlic butter sauce elevates the chicken, adding depth and complexity to every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish, thanks to its mild yet delicious flavors.
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze after enjoying this tasty meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key items you’ll need to prepare this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Slotted spatula: This tool helps you lift the chicken without losing any of the flavorful juices.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your seasoning levels are just right for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Chicken features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together quickly.

Ingredients:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
– 1 to 2 teaspoons 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced)
– 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

To a large skillet, add the olive oil. Once hot, add pounded chicken breasts. Season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for about five minutes without moving the chicken.

Step 2: Flip the Chicken

After five minutes, carefully flip the chicken over. It should have a nice golden color. For thicker breasts, sear them for an additional minute or two if needed.

Step 3: Cook Through

Allow the chicken to cook on this side for about five more minutes until fully cooked through. Avoid disturbing it while it’s searing.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Using a slotted spatula, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet

With caution, add either apple vinegar or broth to deglaze your skillet. Allow it to bubble up and steam for a few seconds to lift all those delicious browned bits from the bottom.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

Add unsalted butter into the skillet. Stir continuously until melted, which should take about one minute.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Once melted, add finely minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute), stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 8: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Turn off the heat. Add the rested chicken back into the skillet. Flip it in the garlic butter sauce so it’s well-coated. Spoon extra sauce over each piece before serving.

Step 9: Serve

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for an irresistible dinner!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutritious boost to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful side.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the chicken perfectly.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Fluffy White Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce.
• Pasta Primavera: Tossed with seasonal vegetables, pasta makes a hearty base for the succulent chicken.

In a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons makes a refreshing pairing.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To make sure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: Ensure that your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Sear Without Disturbing: Let the chicken sear without moving it around; this creates a beautiful golden crust.
• Deglaze Properly: Use apple vinegar or broth to deglaze the skillet, incorporating all those tasty brown bits into your sauce.
• Adjust Butter Amounts: For extra sauce, feel free to add more butter at any stage of cooking.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce and adds a crunchy texture.
2. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and veggies provides a light, flavorful side.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs makes a wholesome addition that complements the dish well.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender add sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast to the soft chicken while adding freshness.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is simple yet delicious alongside this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Searing: Not allowing the chicken to sear properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure you don’t touch or move the chicken while it’s cooking for the best golden crust.

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too many pieces of chicken at once, they won’t cook evenly. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets nice and browned.

• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken right away can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Always let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your garlic butter sauce relies on good-quality butter and fresh garlic. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best taste.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different. Always taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Chicken that might help you get started.

What makes Garlic Butter Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of rich butter, fresh garlic, and seasoning creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural taste, making it irresistible!

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can try it with turkey or even shrimp for a delicious twist on Garlic Butter Chicken.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely cooked through.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Pair it with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. This dish is sure to become a family favorite—give it a try today!