Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion. Its rich and indulgent flavors make it a standout choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of apple vinegar. This easy stovetop recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Garlic Butter Chicken comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and apple vinegar creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Perfectly suited for both casual meals and elegant dinner parties; serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavor profile appeals to children and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken breasts and wholesome ingredients, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly seared chicken.
• Slotted spatula: This tool allows you to remove the chicken without excess oil or liquid, keeping your plate clean.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of mincing garlic and trimming chicken breasts for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness; about 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 (as necessary)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or more for 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: Sear the Chicken

To a large skillet, add the olive oil. Place the pounded chicken into the skillet and season evenly with 21 Salute seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes without disturbing it. After this time, flip the chicken over; it should have a golden color. For thicker breasts, sear them for an additional minute or two.

Step 2: Cook Through

Allow the chicken to cook on the second side for about another 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Avoid moving it around during this time to achieve that perfect sear.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

Once done cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet using a slotted spatula. Place it on a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet

With caution, add the white apple vinegar (or broth) to deglaze your skillet. Allow the liquid to bubble up and steam vigorously for a few seconds. This step helps lift all those tasty bits off the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Butter

Add in the unsalted butter and let it melt—about one minute—while stirring continuously until fully melted.

Step 6: Incorporate Garlic

Once melted, add your minced garlic into the skillet. Cook until fragrant—around one minute—stirring continuously so that nothing burns.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Turn off the heat before adding back in your cooked chicken. Flip it around in that rich garlic butter sauce and spoon more sauce over it.

Step 8: 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 enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make the most of this flavorful meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli pairs well with the rich sauce and adds a healthy touch.
• Roasted Asparagus: The nutty flavor of roasted asparagus complements the garlic butter beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy White Rice: Serve the chicken over white rice to soak up the tasty garlic butter sauce.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add a nutritious twist while balancing the richness of the dish.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Garlic Butter Chicken Wrap: Roll up sliced chicken, veggies, and sauce in a tortilla for an easy lunch.
• Chicken Sandwich: Place the chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying meal.

With Pasta

• Garlic Butter Pasta: Toss cooked pasta in the leftover garlic butter for an indulgent side dish.
• Pasta Salad: Create a cold pasta salad with olive oil, herbs, and veggies for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken, consider these handy tips. They will ensure that your chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: Pounding the chicken breasts ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times to avoid dry chicken; use a meat thermometer if needed.
• Deglaze Properly: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet when deglazing for added flavor in your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning based on your preference for saltiness and spice.
• Let It Rest: Allowing chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting match with this dish.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast and complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
3. Sauteed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans bring color and crunch to your plate while balancing flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of garlic butter.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory chicken flavors.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture, making it a delightful accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken can be quick and delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Pan – If you place too many chicken pieces in the skillet, they will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches for a perfect golden crust.
• Not Prepping Chicken Properly – Failing to pound the chicken to an even thickness leads to uneven cooking. Ensure uniformity for juicy results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times – Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check if it has reached 165°F (75°C).
• Using Cold Ingredients – Adding cold chicken straight from the fridge can lower the pan’s temperature. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step – Neglecting to deglaze the skillet misses out on delicious flavor. Always scrape up browned bits before adding other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken.

How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside garlic. A splash of lemon juice also adds brightness.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken?

This dish goes well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Vegetables sautéed in garlic butter also complement it perfectly.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken healthy?

While delicious, it is high in fat due to butter. You can substitute olive oil or reduce butter for a lighter version while maintaining flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only easy and quick but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite herbs or spices. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends. Give it a try today!

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Garlic Butter Chicken

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Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful and quick dish that brings rich flavors to your table in just 15 minutes. This easy stovetop recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of apple vinegar, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The savory notes combined with the aromatic essence of garlic create a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfectly versatile, it pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys this delicious feast.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 to 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season pounded chicken breasts with seasoning, salt, and pepper; sear for about 5 minutes without moving.
3. Flip chicken and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken and let it rest on a plate.
5. Deglaze the skillet with apple vinegar or broth, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Add butter and melt while stirring continuously.
7. Incorporate minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet to coat in the sauce and serve garnished with parsley.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (170g)
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. Ensure even thickness by pounding the chicken breast to avoid uneven cooking. You can easily substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.