Name: Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken breast ((boneless and skinless, cut into strips)); ¼ teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); ½ teaspoon pepper ((or to taste)); 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic ((minced)); ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ cup chicken broth ((low sodium or no sodium added)); 1 tablespoon Sriracha; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley ((chopped)); lemon slices lemon slices ((for garnish))

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Growing up, my family had a few staple recipes that always brought us together at the dinner table, and one of those was Garlic Butter Chicken. The aroma of sizzling chicken combined with the rich scent of melted butter and fresh garlic was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I remember standing in the kitchen, watching my mom pour her love into the dish, ensuring every piece of chicken was perfectly seasoned and coated in that delicious garlic-infused sauce. It became a family favorite, a comforting meal that was simple yet packed with flavor. What I love about this dish is how incredibly easy it is to make, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, Garlic Butter Chicken is my go-to for satisfying any craving.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Le Creuset 3.75-Quart Braiser

Why Try This Garlic Butter Chicken

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

The combination of butter, garlic, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a dish that’s always a hit at the dinner table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether I’m hosting friends or just cooking for my family, Garlic Butter Chicken fits right in. It’s versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions, making it a fantastic go-to.

Simple Ingredients

This recipe doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. I love that I can whip it up with what I usually have in my pantry. Simple, delicious, and satisfying.

Quick to Prepare

With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly

The flavors in Garlic Butter Chicken are mild enough for kids, and they often love helping out in the kitchen when it’s time to add the garlic and watch the chicken cook.

What to Gather for Garlic Butter Chicken

When it comes to making Garlic Butter Chicken, the ingredient selection is crucial. Each component plays a significant role in creating a mouthwatering dish. I love how the combination of the savory chicken, the richness of butter, and the aromatic garlic work together harmoniously, resulting in a comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

1 ½ pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into strips) – The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – Adds a nice kick and balances the sweetness of the butter.
4 tablespoons butter – Creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the chicken.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – Provides a robust flavor that is central to this dish.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – A touch of heat that enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a layer of smokiness and depth.
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added) – Helps to create the sauce base, keeping it moist and flavorful.
1 tablespoon Sriracha – Introduces a bit of spice and tang to the sauce.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
lemon slices (for garnish) – Brightens the dish and adds a refreshing flavor.

Preparation Steps for Garlic Butter Chicken

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful experience that allows you to connect with the ingredients. As you cook, you’ll notice how the flavors develop beautifully. Follow these steps to create a meal that’s bound to impress.

Cook the chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken strips generously with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavor but ensures a delicious crust when you cook them. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook them for about five minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check if they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.
Make the sauce: With the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about thirty seconds. You want to release that incredible aroma without burning it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Once the garlic is fragrant, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika, stirring to combine. This is where the magic starts to happen! Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the Sriracha. Bring everything to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it, which will add even more flavor to your sauce.
Finish the dish: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Toss it gently in the sauce, ensuring each piece is beautifully coated. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice or vegetables.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t rush the cooking: Allow the chicken to cook thoroughly. Undercooked chicken can pose health risks, so always check for doneness.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You can always add more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavors and make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and keeps it tender.
Explore variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the dish for added texture and flavor.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips I’ve found helpful when making Garlic Butter Chicken. These suggestions will enhance your cooking process and ensure a successful dish every time.

Storage: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Wrap it tightly and freeze for four to six months.
Pairing: Serve with jasmine rice or a light salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Cooking ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and add the chicken right before serving, making it a quick meal.
Garnish: Fresh herbs like basil or chives can also be used for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Garlic Butter Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to consider:

Over rice: Place the tender chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a fulfilling meal.
With vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for a colorful, nutritious plate.
In a wrap: Use leftover chicken in a wrap with fresh lettuce and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a quick lunch.
For dinner parties: Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Seasonal occasions: This dish fits perfectly on a holiday table or for family gatherings, bringing warmth to the occasion.

FAQ

You can serve Garlic Butter Chicken with various sides. I often pair it with fluffy rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh salad can also add a nice crunch and balance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, you can use the chicken in wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch option. Don’t forget to serve some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Yes! One of the great things about Garlic Butter Chicken is that it can be prepared in advance. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat everything together on the stove. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep!

The spice level of Garlic Butter Chicken can be adjusted to your liking. The recipe includes red pepper flakes and Sriracha, which add heat, but you can reduce or omit these ingredients if you prefer a milder flavor. The beauty of this dish is that you can customize it to suit your taste buds.

Garlic Butter Chicken can be part of a healthy diet when made with fresh ingredients. It’s high in protein due to the chicken and has healthy fats from the butter. However, like any dish, moderation is key. Pair it with plenty of vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Garlic Butter Chicken is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!

Garlic Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Garlic Butter Chicken is a rich and savory dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious garlic butter sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this simple recipe delivers incredible flavor and satisfaction. Make this tonight and enjoy a meal everyone will love!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into strips)
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added)
1 tablespoon Sriracha
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
lemon slices lemon slices (for garnish)

Equipment

Le Creuset 3.75-Quart Braiser

Method

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the chicken strips and cook on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
Using the same skillet, add in the garlic, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika and hot sauce. Sauté for thirty seconds until the garlic is aromatic.
Deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken back into the skillet of sauce and toss to coat. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley and lemon slices, and serve.

Notes

Use organic chicken: Try your best to find organic chicken, it’s important to know what your chicken is eating, before you eat the chicken!
Don’t overcook the garlic: Garlic doesn’t need to cook for a long time – I’m talking thirty seconds to a minute! Burnt garlic tastes bitter and will definitely throw off the flavor outcome of your dish!
Season to your taste: If there are certain seasonings that will make or break your taste buds, feel free to switch it up! For example, if the red pepper flakes are too much for your palate, using rosemary or thyme is a great alternative.
Storage: This garlic butter chicken will last in the fridge up to three days if wrapped well or stored in an airtight container.
Freezing: To extend the shelf life, I recommend freezing it, wrapped well or in an airtight container, and it will last anywhere from four to six months.