If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, creating a meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 20 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a savory sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables, for a complete meal.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Garlic Butter Chicken, you will need:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2-2.5 pounds total)
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened but not melted
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or other neutral oil)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a nice sear and locks in moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, flipping it to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy!: Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken hot with your choice of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Thickness: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With its rich garlic butter sauce and juicy chicken, this recipe is bound to impress anyone who tries it—whether it’s family or friends! Perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Try it tonight and experience why this savory delight will melt in your mouth!
