Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that promises to elevate your dinner experience. This succulent chicken, drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce, is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family Favorite: The delicious flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Easy cleanup makes this dish ideal for busy cooks.

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Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Garlic Butter Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the cooking process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows the chicken to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Slotted spatula: Perfect for lifting the chicken without losing any delicious juices.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent flavor in every batch.

Ingredients

🧄🧈🍗 Tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of apple vinegar for extra flavor! This EASY stovetop chicken recipe is ready in 15 minutes and will become a family FAVORITE!

Main Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness (4 average-sized breasts))
• 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)

Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth (or as necessary)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more if you want extra sauce)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (finely minced; or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To a large skillet, add the olive oil. Place the pounded chicken into the skillet and season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes without moving the chicken. Afterward, flip it over; it should be golden brown. If using thicker breasts, sear for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Cook Until Done

Allow the chicken to cook on the second side for about 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Again, avoid disturbing it while searing.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken with a slotted spatula and place it on a plate to rest.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet

Using caution, deglaze your skillet by adding white apple vinegar (or broth). Let it bubble up vigorously for a few seconds.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Add the butter to the hot skillet. Allow it to melt completely while stirring continuously for about one minute.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Mix in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—approximately one minute—while stirring constantly.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, flipping it in the garlic butter sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to please your family and friends. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the rich garlic butter sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Pasta

• Pair the chicken with your favorite pasta. Toss it in the garlic butter sauce for a delightful combination that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it on a fresh garden salad. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light, healthy meal option.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for soft or hard shell tacos. Top with fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro for an exciting twist.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables. This adds color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the flavors of the chicken.

As Leftovers

• Use any leftover garlic butter chicken in sandwiches or wraps. It’s perfect for lunch the next day!

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To achieve the ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly compared to dried versions.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Make sure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
• Sear Without Disturbing: Resist the urge to move the chicken around while it cooks; this promotes a nice golden crust.
• Deglaze Properly: When adding apple vinegar or broth, scrape up any brown bits from the pan; this adds incredible depth of flavor.
• Butter Temperature Matters: Allow your butter to melt slowly after deglazing to create that luxurious sauce without burning it.
• Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds a touch of freshness that balances richness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and pair beautifully with the buttery sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits while balancing out the richness of the chicken.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil make for a delightful crunchy side that complements tender chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious option that’s full of texture.

5. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is light yet satisfying, absorbing all those delicious garlic butter flavors.

6. Garlic Bread
   Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your plate—it’s an irresistible addition!

7. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish while providing a refreshing contrast.

8. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is an enjoyable side that pairs well with savory dishes like Garlic Butter Chicken; grill or boil as desired!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season your chicken can lead to a bland dish. Always use salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning, to enhance the flavors.
• Overcrowding the skillet – Packing too much chicken in one pan can cause it to steam rather than sear. Cook in batches if necessary for a perfect golden crust.
• Not resting the chicken – Cutting into the chicken too soon can result in dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Ignoring garlic timing – Adding garlic too early can burn it and ruin the sauce. Make sure to add it after the butter has melted for optimal flavor.
• Using high heat throughout – Cooking on too high of heat might char the chicken’s exterior while leaving it undercooked inside. Sear over medium-high heat for even cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Butter Chicken.

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and easy dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s flavorful and perfect for any weeknight dinner.

How long does Garlic Butter Chicken take to cook?

This recipe takes just about 15 minutes of cooking time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious quickly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for breasts. Just adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may take slightly longer.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, 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. Customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your preferences. This dish promises comfort and satisfaction every time you make it—try it tonight!