Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. This easy recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The unique blend of flavors, including a hint of apple vinegar, elevates this dish beyond the ordinary, ensuring it becomes a family favorite on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and apple vinegar creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this Garlic Butter Chicken alongside rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavor and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken efficiently, gather your kitchen essentials before you start cooking. Having the right tools will help streamline the process and ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Slotted Spatula
• Measuring Spoons
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Provides ample space for searing the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Slotted Spatula: Perfect for removing the chicken from the skillet without losing any delicious juices.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for seasonings and vinegar for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Chicken requires simple ingredients that deliver amazing flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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: Prepare Your Chicken

• To a large skillet, add the olive oil.
• Place pounded chicken into the skillet.
• Evenly season with 21 Salute, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes without disturbing it.
• After five minutes, flip the chicken over. It should have a medium golden color.
• For thicker or larger breasts, sear for an additional minute or two.

Step 3: Cook Through

• Allow chicken to cook for another 5 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

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

Step 5: Deglaze the Skillet

• Carefully add apple vinegar (or broth) to deglaze your skillet.
• Let it bubble up and steam for a few seconds.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

• Add unsalted butter and let it melt while stirring continuously for about one minute.

Step 7: Add Garlic

• Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute).

Step 8: Combine Everything

• Turn off heat. Add chicken back into the skillet.
• Flip it around in the garlic butter sauce and spoon some sauce over it.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

• Optionally garnish with parsley before serving immediately.

With these steps, you’ll create a delicious Garlic Butter Chicken that’s perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides or served in different ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness to your plate.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Quinoa: This protein-rich grain offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

In a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness and a crispy texture that balances the richness of the dish.
• Spinach Salad: Tossed with vinaigrette, this salad adds a light, tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to scoop up the sauce and enjoy every last bit.
• Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for sopping up any remaining garlic butter sauce on your plate.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

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

• Use even thickness: Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t disturb while searing: Allow the chicken to sear without moving it for the best golden crust.
• Deglaze carefully: When deglazing, add liquid slowly to avoid splattering and allow for full flavor development.
• Fresh garlic is key: Use fresh minced garlic for optimal flavor; dried garlic won’t provide the same taste profile.
• Adjust butter as desired: For extra sauce, feel free to add more butter when melting with garlic.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing Garlic Butter Chicken with complementary side dishes can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus offers a crisp texture that complements the dish well.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
4. Creamed Spinach: This decadent side brings creaminess and depth, enhancing the overall meal experience.
5. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with herbs provides a light contrast to the buttery chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness; grill or boil it for an easy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Butter Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that might affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Pounding the Chicken: Failing to pound the chicken breasts can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are of equal thickness for consistent results.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken right after cooking can dry it out. Always let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
• Skipping Deglazing: Not deglazing the skillet can mean missing out on rich flavors from browned bits. Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up these tasty morsels.
• Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, leading to bitterness. Add it towards the end of cooking and stir constantly for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a plate and cover. Heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Butter Chicken that can help you make this dish even better.

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick and easy stovetop recipe featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time since they may take longer than breasts.

How do I customize my Garlic Butter Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken keto-friendly?

Yes! This dish fits well within keto guidelines due to its low carb content, making it a great option for keto diets.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies and serve it over rice or pasta for a complete meal. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its heavenly flavors!