Name: Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon Olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; optional Crushed red chili pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons Butter; 3-4 cloves Garlic; 2 tablespoons Parsley

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There’s something truly comforting about a dish like Garlic Butter Chicken. I still remember the first time I made it: the aroma of sizzling garlic filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t resist the urge to sneak a taste before it was even plated. This dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. As I plated my Garlic Butter Chicken, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing how easy it was to bring such flavor to the table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment of joy that we all deserve at the end of a busy day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan

The Beauty of This Garlic Butter Chicken

Quick and Easy

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Chicken is its speed. You can whip this up in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Just imagine coming home after a long day and having dinner ready in about 15 minutes. It transforms the idea of cooking into something enjoyable rather than a chore.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of rich butter and fresh garlic is a flavor match made in heaven. When cooking, the butter melts and envelopes the chicken, infusing it with a savory depth that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Versatile Dish

Garlic Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with various sides, from pasta to rice and steamed vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for an intimate dinner or a family gathering, this dish caters to various tastes and preferences.

Healthy Ingredients

This recipe uses wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious. With fresh herbs, lean chicken, and healthy fats from the butter and olive oil, you can feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you enjoy meal prepping, Garlic Butter Chicken is a fantastic option to include in your weekly lineup. It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

What Goes Into Garlic Butter Chicken

The ingredients of Garlic Butter Chicken are simple yet effective. They come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursts with flavor. The key players in this recipe—the chicken, garlic, and butter—work harmoniously to develop a rich, savory profile that’s sure to please.

2 medium chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally: This is the star ingredient, providing a tender, juicy base for the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it adds a light flavor and helps achieve a nice sear.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds depth and aroma to the chicken.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
Crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional: For those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.
2 tablespoons butter: The secret to the dish’s signature sauce, adding richness and flavor.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma and taste.
2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley, or cilantro: This adds a fresh finishing touch to the dish.

How to Assemble Garlic Butter Chicken

Assembling your Garlic Butter Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a household favorite.

Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thin fillets. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and if you like it hot, add a pinch of crushed red chili pepper flakes. Make sure to coat them evenly to ensure great flavor.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, it’s time to add the chicken.
Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. The outside should have a lovely brown color, while the inside remains juicy.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This allows it to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Lower the heat to low-medium and add the butter to the same pan. Allow it to melt completely, scraping any flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken.
Next, add the minced garlic and any remaining herbs. Stir them into the melted butter and let the garlic cook for a minute or two until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.
Return the chicken to the pan and drizzle the buttery garlic sauce over the top. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Once the chicken is heated through and coated in the sauce, it’s ready to serve. Pair it with your choice of sides like pasta, veggies, or rice for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Check the Chicken: Always make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garlic Timing: Don’t overcook the garlic; it can burn quickly. You want it just golden to maintain its sweet flavor.
Season Well: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Everyone’s palate is different.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices before serving.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Garlic Butter Chicken, here are some ideas to keep in mind. There are countless ways to add your twist or make this dish even more enjoyable.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: This dish is perfect with pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad. Try it with garlic bread for a complete Italian meal.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a new flavor profile.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, add more crushed red chili pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce.

Side Dish Ideas for Garlic Butter Chicken

When serving Garlic Butter Chicken, the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some fantastic ideas to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes complements the savory flavors of the chicken, making for a comforting dish.
Steamed Broccoli: A light, healthy option that adds a pop of color and nutrients to your plate.
Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Pasta Aglio e Olio: A simple spaghetti dish with garlic and olive oil can mirror the flavors in your chicken, creating a harmonious meal.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs and spices makes a great base for the garlic butter sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a nice touch and can be prepped while the chicken cooks.
Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative that can be filled with vegetables and herbs, adding both texture and nutrition to your meal.

FAQ

To store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should be good for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. This method helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out.

Yes, you can freeze Garlic Butter Chicken if you want to save some for later. After cooking, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!

Garlic Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some of my favorites include creamy mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or even a light salad. Pasta with olive oil and garlic complements the flavors of the chicken as well. You can mix and match based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

If you want to add some heat to your Garlic Butter Chicken, you can increase the amount of crushed red chili pepper flakes in the recipe. Another option is to add a dash of hot sauce when you serve the dish. Just a little can enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Adjust it to your taste for the perfect spicy kick!

Conclusion

Overall, Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something comforting yet quick. I encourage you to try it out—you won’t be disappointed. Give this recipe a go and experience the joy of home-cooked goodness!