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Buttery Garlic Chicken Recipe

Buttery Garlic Chicken Recipe - Easy Meals To Cook

Picture this: it’s a weeknight, and you come home weary from the daily grind. The last thing you want to do is navigate an elaborate recipe.
 Enter buttery garlic chicken, your new best friend. It’s simple to prepare, yet delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering of friends, this dish never fails to impress.
Buttery garlic chicken is more than a meal; it’s an experience. It fills your kitchen with inviting scents. It brings loved ones around the table, eagerly anticipating the first bite. 
With its rich flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires just a handful of pantry staples. Let’s explore what sets this recipe apart.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 371
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 8 oz each
  • 2 tsp Himalayan pink salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp oregano flakes
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary needles
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley flakes
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
  1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step; it allows more connection to the hot pan, creating a delightful sear. Season slightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat until shimmering. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
  1. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook without moving them for about 6-7 minutes or until golden brown on one side. Then, flip them and let them cook another 6-7 minutes on the other side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. Reduce the heat to low. In the same pan, add the remaining butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Stir for about a minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
Step 5: Deglaze with Chicken Stock
  1. Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any stuck bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Herbs and Lemon
  1. Stir in the dried herbs, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Let it cook in the sauce for an extra minute to soak up the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
  1. Plate the chicken, generously pouring the garlic sauce over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch that pre-minced varieties just can’t match.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Too much chicken at once won’t give you that lovely sear. If you have more, cook in batches.
  • Letting the chicken rest: Resting after cooking retains juiciness. Wait at least 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Adjust cooking time for thickness: Thicker chicken breasts will need more time. A meat thermometer is your friend.
  • Bulk up the sauce: Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.