Let me tell you, this garlic butter chicken recipe is a game-changer! It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress, yet it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. I remember the first time I made it—my friends were over for dinner, and I was anxious about trying something new. But as soon as that heavenly smell of garlic and butter filled my kitchen, I knew I had struck gold. The chicken turned out so tender and flavorful that it quickly became a staple in my recipe rotation. Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients can create such a delicious meal! Trust me, this is one you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those nights when you need something quick but satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
How to Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Preheat and Season
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because we want that oven nice and hot for perfectly cooked chicken. While that’s heating up, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really helps enhance the flavor of the dish!
Sautéing the Garlic
Now, grab a skillet and melt those 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The moment that butter starts to sizzle, add in the minced garlic. Oh wow, you’re going to love this part! Sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant—this usually takes about 1 minute. Just be careful not to burn it; we want that beautiful, aromatic garlic flavor to shine through!
Cooking the Chicken
Next up, it’s time to cook the chicken! Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and let them cook for about 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a lovely golden-brown color. If you’re not sure if they’re cooked through, don’t hesitate to cut into one—it should be white all the way through, with no pink. Trust me, you want to avoid any surprises!
Baking the Chicken
Once the chicken is beautifully seared, transfer those breasts to a baking dish. Now, here’s where the magic happens: pour that delicious garlic butter from the skillet all over the chicken. It’s going to add so much flavor! Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. If you’ve got a meat thermometer handy, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garnishing and Serving
Finally, let’s make it pretty! Once the chicken is out of the oven, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. I love serving it alongside fluffy rice or seasonal veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. You won’t believe how easy it is to create such a fantastic dish!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Incredibly flavorful thanks to the garlic butter combination.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- Easy cleanup—just one skillet and a baking dish!
- Gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.
- Impressive enough for guests, yet simple for a weeknight dinner.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this garlic butter chicken recipe! Here are some of my top tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Choose the right chicken: While I love using chicken breasts, feel free to swap in chicken thighs if you prefer. They’re juicier and can handle a bit more cooking without drying out.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Make sure to season both sides of the chicken. It’s so easy to forget the underside, but trust me, it makes all the difference in flavor!
- Watch that garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while it’s sautéing. It can go from fragrant to burnt in a flash, and burnt garlic just doesn’t taste good!
- Use a meat thermometer: If you have one, use it! It takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Let it rest: After baking, give your chicken a few minutes to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more tender and flavorful.
- Experiment with herbs: While parsley is fantastic, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful twist to the dish.
- Make it a meal: Pair this chicken with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying dinner that’s sure to impress!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to create a garlic butter chicken masterpiece. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for my garlic butter chicken recipe. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities you use. But this will give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something that’s both tasty and nutritious!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this garlic butter chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking. It may take a little longer to cook through, so keep an eye on it and check for that 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.
What can I serve with garlic butter chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with so many sides! I love serving it with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables. You could also try garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Yum!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and garlic butter ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and bake them when you’re ready to serve. It makes for a quick and easy dinner on a busy night!
How do I store leftovers?
Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I adjust the garlic in this recipe?
Of course! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more. But if you prefer a milder taste, you can definitely reduce the amount. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s totally adaptable to your taste!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delightful garlic butter chicken and have some leftovers? Lucky you! Storing and reheating it properly is key to keeping all those mouthwatering flavors intact.
First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before you tuck it away. Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to seal it tightly so it doesn’t absorb any other fridge odors.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super easy! You can pop the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through. This method helps maintain that juicy texture. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave—just be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in, and heat in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
And remember, if you want to give it a little extra love, drizzle a bit more melted butter or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving. It’s a simple way to refresh your meal and make it feel just as good as the first time!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe that Will Delight Tonight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple garlic butter chicken recipe that is flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour the garlic butter over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.
- Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: garlic butter chicken recipe
