Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a quick and delicious meal that combines bold flavors with ease. This dish stands out as a simple yet satisfying option, perfect for busy evenings when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. With juicy chicken enveloped in a garlicky butter sauce, it’s no wonder this garlic butter chicken recipe appeals to home cooks, busy parents, and food enthusiasts alike.
One of the biggest draws is the ease of preparation, letting you whip up a tasty dinner in under 30 minutes. Garlic butter chicken packs in health benefits too, thanks to the protein from chicken and the antioxidants in garlic that support overall well-being. Its versatility shines through as you can tweak it for different needs, making it ideal for various diets while keeping that rich, savory taste front and center.
Imagine biting into tender chicken coated in a crispy seasoned flour layer, all drenched in a buttery sauce that elevates every bite. This garlic butter chicken recipe with rich flavor uses just a few key ingredients to create magic on your plate, helping you explore new tastes without overwhelming your routine. Whether you’re a student juggling classes or a working professional needing a fast fix, this dish brings joy to mealtime and encourages memorable family moments.
To make it even better, the recipe adapts seamlessly, so you can enjoy garlic butter chicken in ways that fit your lifestyle. For instance, if you’re watching your calories, swapping in lighter options keeps it healthy without losing the appeal. This flexibility, paired with the dish’s distinctive flavor from aromatic garlic and creamy butter, makes garlic butter chicken a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. If you’re looking for more garlic-infused ideas, check out our Garlic Butter Steak Noodles for a tasty twist.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Chicken
- 5. Mastering Garlic Butter Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken
- 8. Garlic Butter Chicken
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this garlic butter chicken recipe with simple ingredients. Each item plays a role in creating a dish that’s both flavorful and straightforward to prepare. Below, you’ll find a structured list of all the essential components, based on precise measurements to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 9oz/250g each), brought close to room temperature
- 1/4 cup (40g) plain or all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken stock
- 6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional to taste
- 1 lemon (optional), cut into 4 wedges for serving
This list covers everything you need for garlic butter chicken, ensuring no detail is missed. For those with special dietary needs, you can easily modify these basics, like using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Keeping measurements exact helps achieve that perfect balance of flavors in your garlic butter chicken.
How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating garlic butter chicken is all about following simple steps that lead to a mouthwatering result. Start by pulling together your ingredients and setting up your workspace for smooth cooking. This garlic butter chicken recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour (1/4 cup / 40g), garlic powder (1 tsp), salt (1 tsp), and black pepper (1/2 tsp).
- Butterfly each chicken breast to create four even-sized portions. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing to coat evenly, then shake off any excess.
- Heat 1 tablespoon (15g) of the unsalted butter and the olive oil (1 tbsp) in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 3-5 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic cloves to the pan and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to brown.
- Pour in the chicken stock (1/2 cup / 120ml) and immediately scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.
- Add the remaining unsalted butter (5 tbsp / 75g) in chunks to the pan. Whisk quickly as the butter melts to emulsify the sauce; it should become slightly cloudy.
- Stir in the fresh parsley (1 tbsp). Season the sauce with additional salt and black pepper to your taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken and baste well. Serve immediately.
- Optional: Serve with lemon wedges. Squeeze a wedge over the plated chicken just before eating to cut through the richness of the butter sauce, if desired.
This step-by-step process ensures your garlic butter chicken turns out tender and full of flavor. For more chicken-based recipes, explore our Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe to add variety to your meals. Remember, cooking times may vary slightly based on your pan and heat source.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Chicken
Making garlic butter chicken work for your dietary preferences is easy with a few smart swaps. This chicken recipe adapts well, allowing you to keep the rich flavor while meeting specific needs. Whether you’re aiming for a vegan option or something lighter, these changes help maintain the dish’s appeal.
For protein alternatives, try substituting chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh to make it vegan-friendly. If you prefer other meats, turkey or pork tenderloin can step in as lean options without altering the garlic butter chicken’s core taste. Always check that your seasonings and flour are gluten-free certified if that’s a concern.
When it comes to vegetables and seasonings, adding green beans or asparagus as sides can bring new textures to your garlic butter chicken. Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos if you’re avoiding gluten, and experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fresh twist. For a low-calorie version, cut back on butter and use olive oil instead to keep things light yet flavorful.
Mastering Garlic Butter Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your garlic butter chicken to the next level involves some pro techniques and creative twists. Using a cast iron skillet ensures even heat and a flawless sear, enhancing the crispy coating on your chicken. This method locks in flavors and makes your garlic butter chicken recipe with rich flavor even more irresistible.
For flavor variations, add lemon zest for a bright kick or smoked paprika for a smoky depth that complements the garlic chicken elements. Presentation matters too serve your dish on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice, topped with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a visually appealing plate. If you’re planning ahead, prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it separately to save time while keeping the chicken’s texture fresh.
These tips not only improve the taste but also add flexibility to your routine. For butter chicken lovers, trying different herbs can open up new possibilities in your garlic butter chicken adventures.
How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken: Best Practices
Proper storage keeps your garlic butter chicken fresh and tasty for later enjoyment. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 days. This simple step helps preserve the flavors of your garlic butter chicken without much hassle.
When freezing, wrap portions tightly in freezer-safe bags to maintain quality for up to 3 months. For reheating, use a skillet on low heat to keep the moisture and rich taste intact, or opt for a microwave with a covered dish to avoid drying it out. Thinking ahead for meal prep? Divide into single servings for easy grab-and-go options that fit into your busy schedule as a working professional or parent.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken
How do I make garlic butter chicken tender and juicy?
To achieve tender, juicy garlic butter chicken, start by using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts and avoid overcooking. Sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown, then lower the heat and add garlic and butter to baste frequently. Cooking slowly in the butter sauce allows the flavors to soak in while keeping the chicken moist. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices inside.
Can I substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder in garlic butter chicken?
Fresh garlic is recommended for garlic butter chicken as it provides a rich, aromatic flavor that garlic powder lacks. If you must use garlic powder, add it sparingly—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove—toward the end of cooking since it doesn’t caramelize or infuse butter like fresh garlic does. Using fresh garlic will give you a more authentic and vibrant taste.
What side dishes pair well with garlic butter chicken?
Garlic butter chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple mixed green salad. For carb options, creamy risotto, buttered pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce complement the dish nicely. Choose sides with mild flavors to balance the rich sauce.
How long does garlic butter chicken take to cook on the stove?
Cooking garlic butter chicken on the stove typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. Start by searing the chicken for about 5 minutes per side over medium heat until golden, then reduce the heat and cook an additional 5-10 minutes while spooning the garlic butter sauce over the chicken. Total time may vary depending on thickness—use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Is garlic butter chicken healthy to eat regularly?
Garlic butter chicken can be part of a balanced diet if prepared with moderate butter and served with nutritious sides like vegetables or whole grains. While butter adds saturated fat and calories, fresh garlic offers antioxidants and immune benefits. To make it healthier, consider using unsalted butter or olive oil, trimming excess fat from chicken, and controlling portion sizes.
Garlic Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
🍗 Experience a rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying midweek meal.
🧈 This dish features tender, crispy chicken crowned with a luscious garlicky butter sauce made from simple ingredients.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 9oz/250g each)
– 1/4 cup (40g) plain or all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken stock
– 6 tablespoons (90g) unsalted butter, divided
– 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely diced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional to taste
– 1 lemon (optional), cut into 4 wedges for serving
Instructions
1-In a shallow dish, combine the flour (1/4 cup / 40g), garlic powder (1 tsp), salt (1 tsp), and black pepper (1/2 tsp).
2-Butterfly each chicken breast to create four even-sized portions. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing to coat evenly, then shake off any excess.
3-Heat 1 tablespoon (15g) of the unsalted butter and the olive oil (1 tbsp) in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 3-5 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
4-Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic cloves to the pan and fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to brown.
5-Pour in the chicken stock (1/2 cup / 120ml) and immediately scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.
6-Add the remaining unsalted butter (5 tbsp / 75g) in chunks to the pan. Whisk quickly as the butter melts to emulsify the sauce; it should become slightly cloudy.
7-Stir in the fresh parsley (1 tbsp). Season the sauce with additional salt and black pepper to your taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
8-Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken and baste well. Serve immediately.
9-Optional: Serve with lemon wedges. Squeeze a wedge over the plated chicken just before eating to cut through the richness of the butter sauce, if desired.
Notes
🧈 Use unsalted butter for better control over salt level in the sauce.
🍗 Bring chicken close to room temperature before cooking for tender, juicy results.
🌿 Fresh parsley adds the best flavor; substitute thyme or rosemary cautiously due to stronger taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying and sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 337
- Sugar: 0.54g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 19.52g
- Saturated Fat: 9.01g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.55g estimated
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Carbohydrates: 8.39g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 30.72g
- Cholesterol: 116mg
Keywords: Garlic butter chicken, Simple ingredients, Rich flavor, Quick dinner