Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a savory garlic butter sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. In just 15 minutes, you can serve up a meal that your entire family will love. The combination of garlic and butter elevates the flavors, while a splash of apple vinegar adds a unique twist that makes this dish stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with apple vinegar creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete dinner.
• Family Favorite: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry items, you can whip this up without any hassle.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing everything beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is crucial for searing the chicken evenly and developing flavor in the sauce.
• Slotted spatula: It allows you to remove the chicken from the skillet without excess oil, keeping it juicy.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of seasonings and ingredients for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 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)
• 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: Heat the Skillet

To begin, preheat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil once hot.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Add the pounded chicken breasts to the skillet. Season evenly with the garlic seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes without moving them to create a nice sear. Flip the chicken over after this time; it should be golden brown.

Step 3: Continue Cooking

Allow the chicken to cook on the second side for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Avoid disturbing during cooking for even results.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, use a slotted spatula to remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet

Carefully add white apple vinegar (or broth) to deglaze your skillet. Let it bubble up for a few seconds while scraping any browned bits off the bottom.

Step 6: Add Butter and Garlic

Add unsalted butter into the bubbling liquid and stir continuously until melted. Then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Turn off the heat and return your cooked chicken back into the skillet. Coat each piece well in the garlic butter sauce by flipping them around gently.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately with your choice of sides!

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic butter chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides and garnishes. Serving it thoughtfully can elevate the meal experience, making it even more delightful for family or guests.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the garlic butter sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice adds a fresh twist that contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can help cleanse the palate after the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken.

As a Sandwich

• Garlic Butter Chicken Sandwich: Use toasted buns to create a satisfying sandwich topped with your favorite fixings like lettuce and tomatoes.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

Achieving perfect garlic butter chicken requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for an exceptional meal.

• Use Even Thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
• Don’t Disturb While Cooking: Letting the chicken sear without moving it helps achieve a nice golden crust, enhancing flavor.
• Deglaze Wisely: When deglazing, scrape up any browned bits from the pan; this adds depth to your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing sides with garlic butter chicken enhances your meal’s overall appeal and nutrition. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the buttery sauce of the chicken.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a crisp texture that balances the dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies offers freshness and nutrition alongside the rich chicken.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw dressed in a tangy mayo-based dressing adds crunch and acidity to offset richness.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter pairs wonderfully, bringing summer vibes to your dinner table.
6. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables creates a hearty yet fresh accompaniment to garlic butter chicken.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for excellent dipping in any leftover sauce.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory garlic flavors in your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind. Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Not pounding the chicken: Always pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many pieces at once can lower the skillet’s temperature. Cook in batches to maintain a good sear.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. Don’t skip this step!
• Using low-quality butter: The butter is key for flavor in Garlic Butter Chicken. Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best results.
• Ignoring seasoning levels: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your preference for a well-seasoned dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Chicken.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?

You can pair Garlic Butter Chicken with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. These sides complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Can I use different types of vinegar?

Yes! While white apple vinegar works best, you can substitute with other vinegars like white wine or balsamic vinegar for different flavor profiles.

How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken spicy?

To add heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the garlic butter sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken keeps well in the fridge and makes an excellent option for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Try this delightful dish tonight, and enjoy its comforting flavors that will surely impress your family!