Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken
When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, garlic butter chicken is an absolute game changer. Imagine succulent, juicy chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates the entire dish. It’s not just a meal; it's an experience that brings comfort and indulgence to the table in just 30 minutes!
Why Garlic Butter Chicken is the Ultimate Homemade Meal
What makes this dish so irresistible? For starters, it requires only four ingredients for the sauce, making it a breeze to prepare. Garlic, butter, and chicken stock come together to create a flavor profile that’s robust yet surprisingly simple. Not only does this recipe save you time, but it's also budget-friendly, costing around £1.50 / $2 per serving.
As busy young professionals, we often find ourselves juggling work and personal commitments, leaving little time for elaborate cooking. That's where garlic butter chicken shines—you can whip it up in no time and impress your taste buds without breaking a sweat! Plus, the versatility of garlic butter lends itself well to various cuisines, making this dish a universal favorite.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or satisfying solo cravings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential Ingredients You Need
To whip up a delicious garlic butter chicken, you'll only need a handful of essential ingredients:
- 2 Chicken Breasts (9oz/250g each), brought close to room temperature for even cooking
- ¼ cup Plain/All Purpose Flour for that lovely golden crust
- ½ cup Chicken Stock to fragrant and enrich the sauce
- 6 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (divided) for that delectable garlic butter goodness
- 2 cloves of Garlic, minced for a robust flavor punch
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon Salt and ½ teaspoon Black Pepper to season
- 1 Lemon, cut into wedges for that zesty finish
Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor
Want to take your garlic butter chicken to the next level? Consider these flavorful add-ons:
- Fresh Herbs: Try adding Parsley, Thyme, or Rosemary for a herby aroma.
- Garlic Powder: A tablespoon can intensify the garlic flavor.
- Chili Flakes: For those who love some heat!
- Cream: A splash can help create an even richer sauce.
With these ingredients and tips, you're well on your way to making a fabulous meal that's sure to impress! Consider checking out sources like Food Network for more culinary inspiration.
Step-by-step Preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken
Making garlic butter chicken is an enjoyable culinary adventure that you can master in just a few simple steps! Let's dive right in.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Start by ensuring your chicken breasts are close to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. If they’re too thick, butterfly them by slicing them horizontally. You should end up with four evenly-sized pieces. This not only helps with cooking times but allows for perfect golden-brown results!
Make the Flour Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine ¼ cup of flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mixing these dry ingredients will create a flavorful coating for your chicken. This step not only adds taste but also helps achieve that signature crispy outer layer when you fry the chicken. Don’t forget to ensure all the dry ingredients are well blended so every bite is equally delicious!
Dredge the Chicken and Cook
Now it's time to dredge! Take each chicken piece and coat it in your flour mixture. Make sure to press the flour onto the surface for an even coating, then shake off any excess. Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the dredged chicken and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are piping hot in the center.
Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
With the chicken out of the pan, reduce the heat to medium and toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until it starts to turn golden. Then pour in ½ cup of chicken stock and scrap up the delicious remnants stuck to the pan. Add in the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter and whisk until it combines into a beautiful, slightly cloudy sauce. The aroma? Absolutely irresistible!
Combine Chicken and Sauce for Serving
Once your sauce is ready, turn down the heat to low and return the chicken to the pan. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken so it gets well coated. Let them mingle for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. When you’re ready to serve, make sure to drizzle any extra sauce on top and add a squeeze of lemon for that perfect zesty finish. It enhances the richness of the garlic butter chicken beautifully.
Now just plate it up and watch it disappear at your dinner table! For more tips on cooking chicken perfectly, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic Butter Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your garlic butter chicken by incorporating fresh herbs. While parsley is a classic, consider mixing in thyme or rosemary for a robust flavor twist. Just remember, fresh herbs infuse the sauce with a more vibrant taste. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite! You can also check out this guide on cooking with herbs for inspiration.
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Option
If you crave a bit of a kick, spice up your garlic butter chicken with red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers. This variation adds warmth without overwhelming the dish. Perfect for those evenings when you're in the mood for something bold! Don’t forget to adjust the heat level to suit your palate. For the best ways to cook with spice, visit Chili Pepper Madness for expert tips.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Importance of Butter Quality
When making garlic butter chicken, the quality of your butter significantly impacts the dish's flavor. Opt for unsalted butter to maintain better control over the saltiness. High-quality brands can enhance the richness and creaminess of your sauce, adding depth to the garlic notes. Remember, a precise measurement is key—overloading on butter can lead to an overly greasy dish.
Using Fresh Herbs for Optimal Flavor
Fresh herbs like parsley elevate your garlic butter chicken beautifully. Fresh ingredients infuse the dish with vibrant flavors, ensuring every bite is as aromatic as the last. While dried herbs may seem convenient, they don’t deliver the same intensity—allowing softer, fresher notes to shine through. Consider adding thyme or rosemary for a unique twist, but use them sparingly as their flavors can be quite strong.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken
Perfect Side Dishes to Accompany Your Meal
To elevate your garlic butter chicken, consider serving it with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
- Steamed Green Beans: A splash of color and a nutritious balance to the dish.
- Caesar Salad: For a refreshing crunch that complements the heartiness of the chicken.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
These options not only enhance your meal but also cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
Garnishing Ideas for a Beautiful Plate
Presentation matters! Make your garlic butter chicken dish pop with these simple garnishing ideas:
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley brightens up the plate and echoes flavors in the dish.
- Lemon Wedges: Place a wedge on the side for a zesty touch; squeezing it over the chicken before eating cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Edible Flowers: For a fancy touch, consider adding a couple for color!
These touches ensure your meal looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or a cozy dinner at home.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
The preparation for this delicious garlic butter chicken is quick and easy, taking about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken.
Cooking Time
With a cooking time of 20 minutes, you'll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time as you watch the chicken turn golden brown and soak up that rich garlic butter sauce.
Total Time
By adding both preparation and cooking times, you’ll find the total time to make this garlic butter chicken is just 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Feeling inspired? Check out more about the benefits of garlic in cooking at Healthline.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken
When you're whipping up a delectable garlic butter chicken dish, you might be curious about what you’re putting on your plate. Let’s break down the nutritional facts to help you enjoy this delightful meal mindfully.
Calories
Each serving of this savory creation contains approximately 337 calories. This makes it a filling option without going overboard on your caloric intake.
Protein
Packed with 30.72g of protein, garlic butter chicken is an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and overall health. Including lean chicken in your diet can contribute to your daily protein needs.
Sodium
With around 690mg of sodium per serving, it's wise to be aware of your total sodium intake, especially if you’re watching your salt consumption. Opting for low-sodium chicken stock can help you manage this delicious dish’s saltiness.
By keeping these nutritional points in mind, you can savor your garlic butter chicken guilt-free. For more health-conscious ingredient suggestions, you might want to check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive nutritional information. Happy cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken
Can I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Don’t forget to reheat it gently in a skillet or in the microwave — add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
- Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- A fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To give your Garlic Butter Chicken a nutritious twist, you might try the following:
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat.
- Swap out half of the butter for Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative to lower the calorie content.
- Incorporate more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, into the pan while cooking for added vitamins and fiber.
These adjustments can enhance the dish while still keeping it comforting and delicious! For more healthy cooking tips, check out Healthline's guide to healthy cooking methods.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken
The Joy of Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken at Home
Cooking garlic butter chicken at home is a delightful experience that elevates weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a dish that's both comforting and indulgent. The rich flavors and aroma will leave you craving more, making it a family favorite in no time. Remember to explore variations with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. Enjoy the creation of this mouthwatering dish and share it with loved ones! For tips on cooking techniques, check out resources like Serious Eats.
Garlic Butter Chicken
Equipment
- large frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Shallow Dish
- Sharp Knife
- Chopping Board
- Jug
- tongs
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts brought close to room temp
Sauce
- ¼ cup Plain / All Purpose Flour
- ½ cup Chicken Stock
- 6 tablespoon Unsalted Butter divided into tablespoon chunks
- 2 cloves Garlic minced/finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper plus more to taste
- 1 piece Lemon divided into 4 wedges (to serve)
Instructions
Preparation Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine ¼ cup flour with 1 teaspoon garlic powder & salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Butterfly your chicken breasts right through the centre to make 4 even sized breasts. One by one dredge in the flour (press in the flour to get an even coverage), give them a shake then place to one side.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add in the chicken breasts and fry until golden on each side and white/piping hot through the centre. Approx 3-5mins each side depending on thickness. Place to one side.
- Turn heat down to a medium and add garlic. Fry for 1-2mins until it just begins to brown, then pour in stock. Use your wooden spoon to scrape off any flavour stuck to the pan, then add in your remaining 5 tablespoon butter. Swiftly whisk as it melts to bind with the stock, it should turn slightly cloudy.
- Sprinkle in parsley and season to taste with salt & black pepper.
- Allow to simmer for a few mins until it starts to thicken, then turn down the heat to low and add the chicken back in. Spoon over the sauce then serve up with extra sauce drizzled over and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
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