Main Course

Buttered Garlic Chicken Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Name: Buttered Garlic Chicken Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 tsp Fresh Thyme leaves; 1 Lemon, quartered; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste; 250 Boneless, g Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 90 Unsalted g Butter, cut into tablespoon-sized pieces; 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1 tsp Sea Salt, or to taste; 2 cloves Garlic, finely chopped or minced; 40 All-Purpose g Flour; 1/2 cup Chicken Broth

Kelly Blackford February 14, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When planning a meal, it’s important to choose sides that enhance the flavors of the main dish, and buttered garlic chicken offers plenty of delicious pairing possibilities.

Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, add a colorful and nutritious touch, their caramelized edges complementing the rich garlic-infused chicken. Creamy mashed potatoes provide a buttery, smooth contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.

For a lighter option, a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and parsley offers a fresh, slightly tangy balance. If you’re a true garlic lover, warm, toasted garlic bread slathered in butter is the perfect addition.

Finally, steamed asparagus or broccoli brings a pop of color and freshness, rounding out the meal. Now, let’s dive into the buttery goodness of garlic chicken!

What is Buttered Garlic Chicken?

Buttered garlic chicken is a classic dish where juicy chicken breasts are sautéed with a fragrant mixture of garlic and butter.

This dish offers a straightforward preparation process while delivering layers of flavor that make it unforgettable. It’s not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather, to share, and to celebrate.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine a comforting wave of rich butter; then, a burst of vibrant garlic arrives, creating a dance on your palate. The seasoning of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhances each bite, while hints of smoke from paprika add depth.

Fresh thyme and parsley sprinkle brightness over it all, giving this dish a well-rounded and comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This?

You’ll fall in love with buttered garlic chicken for several reasons. First, it’s easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for weekday dinners. Second, the flavor is mind-blowing—simple ingredients come together to create something that feels luxurious.

Lastly, it’s a versatile dish; you can serve it with various sides, and it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Trust me, the moment you taste this, you’ll want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish:

1 tsp Fresh Thyme leaves
1 Lemon, quartered (for serving)
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
250g Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
90g Unsalted Butter, cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Sea Salt, or to taste
2 cloves Garlic, finely chopped or minced
40g All-Purpose Flour (or Plain Flour)
1/2 cup Chicken Broth (or Stock)

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by taking the chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This is important for achieving a good sear. Season both sides with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden color and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any tasty bits left from the chicken. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook this for about a minute until fragrant but be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Create the Flour Mixture

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Stir it to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux that thickens the sauce.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. This will help to loosen the roux and create a smooth sauce. Let it cook for another couple of minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine the Chicken with the Sauce

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat well in the butter sauce. At this point, you can also sprinkle in some fresh parsley for added flavor. Let it simmer for a few more moments to ensure the chicken is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the butter sauce. Serve with lemon wedges, giving each portion a fresh squeeze as this brightens the dish beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever you can, fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor significantly.
Check the Internal Temperature: Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If cooking multiple chicken breasts, do it in batches to ensure they sear properly.
Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.

How Can You Store This Buttered Garlic Chicken?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze leftovers for about a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

Sometimes, you might find you’re missing a few ingredients. Here are some substitutes that work well:

Chicken: Turkey breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both provide great texture and absorb flavors nicely.
Butter: Coconut oil or margarine can be used if you prefer to avoid dairy.
Chicken Broth: Replace it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist or water in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder.

Conclusion

Buttered garlic chicken is more than just a simple dish; it’s a culinary celebration.

Through each step, from searing the chicken to drizzling it with a rich sauce, you create not just a meal but a heartfelt experience. This dish embodies comfort and simplicity, making it the ideal choice for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something incredible in your kitchen!

Your family and friends will be begging for seconds, and trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home just like it is in mine. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, have fun with it! Happy cooking!

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Buttered Garlic Chicken Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Author: Kelly Blackford Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 337 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As I stood in my kitchen last weekend, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled the air. It brought back memories of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's home, where recipes were simple but bursting with flavor.

My family gathered around the table, sharing stories while enjoying dishes like buttered garlic chicken.

This dish is not just another recipe; it’s a journey, a culinary hug that warms the heart. The buttery sauce mingles with the garlicky notes and tender chicken, becoming an experience like no other. Join me as we explore this crowd-pleaser, from its flavor profile to practical tips for making it at home.