If you crave a flavorful and easy meal, the Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is for you! This dish combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. I’ll walk you through the simple steps and share tips to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive into this blissful weeknight meal that brings comfort to your dinner table!
Ingredients
List of ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap chicken breasts for thighs. They stay juicy and add great flavor. If you lack fresh herbs, dried ones work fine. Use half the amount. Instead of lemon juice, try white wine or vinegar for acidity. If you want a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream.
Nutritional information
One serving of garlic butter chicken provides about:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
This dish is rich in protein and flavor, making it a balanced meal. Adjust the portion size to fit your dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the chicken
First, take your chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This small step adds great flavor. Make sure the chicken is dry. This helps it brown nicely.
Cooking the chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden brown and reach 165°F. When done, move the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Making the garlic butter sauce
In the same skillet, add the last 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt. Add minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme. Stir and sauté for 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell nice but not burn. This sauce is the heart of the dish.
Deglazing the pan
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom. This step helps lift all those tasty bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly. This adds depth to your sauce.
Adding cherry tomatoes
Now, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. They will burst with flavor. This adds a fresh touch to the dish.
Combining everything and serving
Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them. Heat everything for another minute. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish is great over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for perfect chicken
To make your chicken juicy, start with even thickness. Pound the breasts to about 1-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking. Letting the chicken sit for 15 minutes helps flavors soak in.
Recommended cooking techniques
Use medium-high heat for cooking. This gives the chicken a nice golden crust. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear.
Enhancing flavor with additional spices
Feel free to add spices to boost the flavor. Paprika adds warmth without heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Try adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a new twist. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano also work well.
Variations
Adding vegetables
You can easily add vegetables to this dish. Broccoli, spinach, and bell peppers work great. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the skillet when you cook the cherry tomatoes. This adds color and nutrients to your meal. Plus, it makes the dish more filling.
Garlic butter chicken with different herbs
You can switch up the herbs for new tastes. If you like basil, add it instead of rosemary. For a stronger flavor, try oregano. Fresh herbs give a bright taste to the garlic butter sauce. Dried herbs can also work if you don’t have fresh. Use half the amount for a great flavor.
Alternative protein options
If you want to change the protein, you can use shrimp or tofu. For shrimp, cook them until they turn pink. For tofu, press it to remove water, then cube it. Both options soak up the garlic butter flavor well. This makes the dish versatile for different diets.
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
To store leftovers, let the garlic butter chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the chicken for best flavor.
Reheating instructions
When you want to reheat, use a skillet for best results. Heat over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s hot. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts.
Freezing options
If you want to freeze it, put the chicken in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. It will last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the chicken juicy and tasty.
FAQs
What to serve with garlic butter chicken skillet?
You can enjoy garlic butter chicken with many sides. Rice is a great choice. It soaks up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it with pasta for a hearty meal. Crusty bread works well too. It helps you wipe the plate clean! Steamed veggies add color and nutrition. Consider green beans, broccoli, or a fresh salad for balance.
How long does garlic butter chicken last in the fridge?
Garlic butter chicken lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. The flavors will still be tasty!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Thawing helps the chicken cook evenly. You can leave it in the fridge overnight. If you are in a hurry, use the microwave. Cook it immediately after thawing to keep it safe.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, use vegetable broth instead. It will still give flavor to the dish. Water can work too, but add extra seasoning. You could also use white wine for a richer taste. Just be careful with the amount, as it can be strong.
You learned how to make garlic butter chicken, from ingredients to storage tips. Follow the step-by-step guide for flavorful results. Explore variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Keep leftovers fresh and enjoy reheating tips. Cooking doesn’t have to be hard; it can be fun and tasty. Try this dish tonight for a meal that impresses. Happy cooking!
