Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner Delight
When it comes to effortless yet delicious home-cooked meals, garlic butter chicken is a classic favorite. With its rich, buttery sauce infused with aromatic garlic, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Whether served with vegetables, pasta, or rice, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Let’s dive into how you can make the best garlic butter chicken at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich in Flavor – A perfect balance of garlic, butter, and herbs.
- Versatile – Pair it with your favorite side dishes.
- Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- To make this delicious garlic butter chicken, you’ll need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for extra zest)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
2. Add butter and let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic.
3. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top.
2. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish.
4. Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: The garlic butter sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy white or brown rice.
- With Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal.
- With Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach make excellent side options.
- With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Customize the Herbs: Feel free to add rosemary, thyme, or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're cooking for your family or looking for a quick meal after a long day, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Try it today, and let the aroma of garlic and butter fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort!
Tags:
Food and Cooking