Garlic Butter Chicken

There’s something utterly comforting about a plate of Garlic Butter Chicken. I remember the first time I tried it; the rich aroma of melting butter and garlic wafted through the kitchen, instantly igniting my appetite. This dish became a family favorite, often making its appearance on busy weeknights when I needed something quick yet delicious. As the chicken sizzles in the skillet, it’s hard not to sneak a taste, and the creamy butter sauce has a knack for bringing everyone to the table. Whether served with a side of rice or fresh vegetables, Garlic Butter Chicken never fails to impress. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together beautifully.

Everything You Need for Garlic Butter Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for crafting the perfect Garlic Butter Chicken. Each component plays a vital role in creating that rich flavor profile we all love. From the tenderness of the chicken to the aromatic garlic and smooth butter, these ingredients work in harmony to create a dish that will satisfy any craving.

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – Tender and juicy, this is the star of the dish, soaking up all the flavorful sauce.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for that punch of garlicky goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper – A touch of spice to balance the richness of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – The key ingredient that makes everything creamy and rich.
• 1 teaspoon olive oil – Helps to sauté the chicken without burning the butter.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – A hint of heat to spice things up.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Essential for deglazing the pan and creating a luscious sauce.
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed – Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon Italian parsley, minced – For garnish, bringing a fresh flavor and lovely presentation.

Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is truly a joy, and I can’t wait to guide you through the steps. Each part of the process builds on the last, ensuring a delicious end result. Let’s dive right in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!

1. Begin by placing the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Toss them gently with the kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and fresh ground pepper. This seasoning will be the foundation of flavor for your dish, so make sure every piece is coated well.

2. Next, heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt half of the butter along with the olive oil. The combination creates the perfect environment for cooking the chicken. Be careful not to let the butter brown too much.

3. Once the butter is melted and fragrant, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about four to five minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the bottom. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor.

4. After the first side is beautifully golden, flip the chicken over to brown the other side. This should take another four to five minutes. The goal is to get a nice sear without burning the butter.

5. Add one teaspoon of minced garlic and the Italian seasonings to the pan, stirring well. Cook for about thirty seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors.

6. Once the garlic is aromatic, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This allows the chicken to rest while you prepare the sauce.

7. In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. You’ll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!

8. Next, deglaze the pan by adding the low-sodium chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; these bits are packed with flavor!

9. Once the broth is bubbling, stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and sriracha. This creates a rich and creamy sauce that will coat the chicken deliciously.

10. Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet, cooking for about three to five minutes or until it reaches your desired tenderness. The bright green color will beautifully contrast with the creamy sauce.

11. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, stirring it gently into the sauce for an additional minute to reheat. The chicken should be hot and coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce.

12. Garnish with fresh minced Italian parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy the joyous explosion of flavors in every bite of your Garlic Butter Chicken.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add a bit of variety to your Garlic Butter Chicken, here are some fun tips and hacks to consider. These ideas will help keep the dish exciting and tailored to your taste.

• Change the protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the amount of sriracha for a spicier kick, or add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.
• Herbal twist: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or thyme to give the dish a unique twist.
• Serve it differently: Instead of traditional sides, try serving this dish over quinoa or a bed of greens for a fresh approach.

Perfect Matches for Garlic Butter Chicken

Serving Garlic Butter Chicken is an art that enhances the experience of enjoying this dish. Here are some delightful options for pairing and occasions:

• Light salads: Pair this dish with a crisp garden salad or a Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Rice options: Serve over fluffy white rice or a flavorful brown rice pilaf to soak up the delicious sauce.
• On special occasions: This dish is perfect for date nights or family gatherings where you want to impress without much fuss.
• Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Seasonal vegetables: Serve with seasonal vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or zucchini for a well-rounded meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy. You might just find it becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Garlic Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Garlic Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish features tender chicken bathed in a savory garlic butter sauce that will satisfy every craving. Make it tonight and enjoy the buttery goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (see note)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lb asparagus trimmed
• 1 tablespoon Italian parsley minced

Equipment

• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. Begin by placing the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Toss them gently with the kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and fresh ground pepper. This seasoning will be the foundation of flavor for your dish, so make sure every piece is coated well.
2. Next, heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt half of the butter along with the olive oil. The combination creates the perfect environment for cooking the chicken. Be careful not to let the butter brown too much.
3. Once the butter is melted and fragrant, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about four to five minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the bottom. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor.
4. After the first side is beautifully golden, flip the chicken over to brown the other side. This should take another four to five minutes. The goal is to get a nice sear without burning the butter.
5. Add one teaspoon of minced garlic and the Italian seasonings to the pan, stirring well. Cook for about thirty seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors.
6. Once the garlic is aromatic, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This allows the chicken to rest while you prepare the sauce.
7. In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. You'll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
8. Next, deglaze the pan by adding the low-sodium chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; these bits are packed with flavor!
9. Once the broth is bubbling, stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and sriracha. This creates a rich and creamy sauce that will coat the chicken deliciously.
10. Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet, cooking for about three to five minutes or until it reaches your desired tenderness. The bright green color will beautifully contrast with the creamy sauce.
11. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, stirring it gently into the sauce for an additional minute to reheat. The chicken should be hot and coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce.
12. Garnish with fresh minced Italian parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy the joyous explosion of flavors in every bite of your Garlic Butter Chicken.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you're substituting fine salt or table salt for the kosher salt in the recipe, use only 3/4 teaspoon or it will be too salty.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.