This garlic butter chicken dish is sure to please anyone who like the savoury combination of buttery richness and fragrant garlic. Envision succulent, juicy chicken chunks encased in a rich, garlicky sauce that bursts with flavour with each bite. Whether you’re hosting a little family meal or a large dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit.
The Magic of Garlic Butter
There is no better combination in the kitchen than garlic and butter. There is no way to resist the seductive combination of garlic’s pungent scent and butter’s thick, velvety texture. To make a sauce that will make you want to lick your plate clean, we’ll be using a substantial amount of both components in this recipe.
This garlic butter sauce, nevertheless, is anything but typical. A combination of fragrant herbs, a dash of cream, and a hint of white wine will be added to it to create a velvety, decadent sauce that will go wonderfully with the chicken.
The Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 8 thighs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
- Add the Chicken and Herbs: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Sprinkle in the fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the garlic butter chicken to a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the remaining sauce over the top and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles or pasta
- Sautéed spinach or asparagus
- Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce
- Crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
FAQ
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often have a more robust flavor than breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this garlic butter chicken is best served fresh, you can certainly make it ahead of time. Simply let the dish cool completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce if needed.
3. Can I substitute the white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. However, the wine does add a lovely depth of flavor to the sauce.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as olive oil or vegan butter. For the cream, you can use a plant-based milk or cream alternative, such as unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
5. Can I use frozen garlic instead of fresh?
While fresh garlic is always preferred for its robust flavor, you can use frozen garlic in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly more muted compared to fresh garlic.
Conclusion
Garlic butter chicken is a true celebration of flavors, combining the rich, indulgent taste of butter with the pungent aroma of garlic and the tender, juicy texture of chicken. This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most exquisite and satisfying dishes.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this garlic butter chicken is sure to impress. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and tender, succulent chicken, each bite is a flavor explosion that will leave you savoring every moment.
