Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich garlic butter sauce in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its mouthwatering flavors. The addition of apple vinegar adds a unique twist, making this dish stand out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful Sauce: The garlic butter sauce infused with apple vinegar elevates the taste of the chicken, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it alongside rice, pasta, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it a go-to for family dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this meal without a trip to specialty stores.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Chicken efficiently, you will need some essential tools that will aid in the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Slotted spatula: This tool helps in lifting the chicken without losing any flavorful juices.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 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: Sear the Chicken

To a large skillet, add the olive oil and pounded chicken. Evenly season with 21 Salute seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes without disturbing the chicken. After 5 minutes, flip the chicken over; it should have a medium golden color. For thicker chicken breasts, sear for an additional minute or two.

Step 2: Cook Thoroughly

Allow the chicken to cook on the second side for about 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Avoid moving it during this time for optimal searing.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken using a slotted spatula and place it on a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet

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

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Add butter to the skillet and let it melt for about one minute while stirring continuously until fully melted.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately one minute. Keep stirring continuously to avoid burning.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat, return the chicken to the skillet, flip it around in the garlic butter sauce, and spoon sauce over it generously.

Step 8: Serve

Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken is an opportunity to get creative with sides and garnishes that enhance the dish’s rich flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
• Caesar Salad – Add a classic Caesar salad for a creamy complement that pairs beautifully with garlic butter.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy White Rice – Serving the chicken over fluffy white rice helps soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Quinoa – For a healthier option, quinoa offers a nutty flavor and additional protein.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus – Roasted asparagus provides a lovely crunch and slight sweetness.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve with garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce while adding a delightful crunch.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the flavorful garlic butter.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

Perfecting Garlic Butter Chicken involves a few key techniques that ensure your chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken – Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, preventing dryness.
• Sear Without Disturbing – Allow the chicken to sear without moving it. This creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in moisture.
• Deglaze Properly – When deglazing, let the liquid bubble up to loosen all those flavorful bits stuck in the pan.
• Taste as You Go – Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt or seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
• Rest Before Slicing – Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps retain juices, resulting in tender meat.
• Garnish for Presentation – Adding fresh parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds a fresh flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken can turn your meal into an unforgettable experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the dish’s flavors.
2. Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with olive oil and garlic offer a fresh crunch alongside the chicken.
3. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your meal.
4. Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and herbs provide an excellent base for the chicken.
5. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta serves as an elegant side that absorbs the garlic butter sauce well.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken can be quick and easy, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavor. Always add salt and spices evenly before cooking.
• Bold crowded skillet: Overcrowding the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.
• Bold skipping resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon will let the juices escape, making it dry. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Bold ignoring garlic timing: Adding garlic too early can cause it to burn and taste bitter. Add it just before removing from heat for perfect flavor.
• Bold not deglazing properly: Skipping the deglazing step can mean missing out on rich flavors from browning. Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up those tasty bits.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, checking every minute until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Garlic Butter Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What is Garlic Butter Chicken?

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delicious dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, offering a flavorful experience that’s quick and easy.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey, beef, or lamb. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness and type of meat used.

How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus or broccoli during cooking for added nutrition and color. You can also experiment with different herbs.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken healthy?

This dish offers protein from the chicken and fats from butter. Pair it with veggies or a salad for a well-rounded meal!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables, making it suitable for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors at your next family dinner!