Garlic butter chicken is a *classic dish* that combines rich flavors and quick preparation, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, garlic, and buttery sauce creates a comforting meal that everyone loves.
For the best results, mastering a few simple techniques is key. Learn more about cooking chicken perfectly or explore tips for making garlic butter sauce to enhance your culinary skills.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- *Versatile*, pairing well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Rich, buttery, and infused with aromatic garlic flavor.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, butterflied
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, then add garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Add the remaining butter and whisk until the sauce emulsifies.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a lemon wedge for added brightness.
Creative Variations
1. Creamy
Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy texture. Perfect for pairing with pasta or rice.
2. with Vegetables
Toss in vegetables like asparagus or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking for a complete one-skillet meal.
3. Grilled
Marinate chicken in melted garlic butter for 30 minutes, then grill until cooked through. Brush with extra sauce while grilling for added flavor.
3 Creative Ways to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken Differently
1. Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Instructions
- Cook your favorite pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine) according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare garlic butter chicken as per the base recipe, slicing the chicken into thin strips after cooking.
- Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet along with the garlic butter sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s coated evenly with the sauce.
- Top with the sliced chicken, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve warm.
2. Garlic Butter Chicken Skewers
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and marinate in melted garlic butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for 30 minutes.
- Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
- Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, brushing with more garlic butter as they cook.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon and your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Baked Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sear in a skillet with butter until golden brown on both sides.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- While baking, baste the chicken with the garlic butter sauce every 10 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with roasted potatoes or a side salad.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
- Always bring chicken to room temperature before cooking to ensure even doneness.
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt level in the sauce.
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce during deglazing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal.
- Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots for a healthier option.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the buttery garlic sauce.
FAQs
What is the sauce in butter chicken made of?
The sauce in butter chicken is typically made from a blend of tomatoes, butter, cream, and aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander. This combination creates a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced gravy that complements the chicken.
How to make garlic butter Gordon Ramsay style?
To make garlic butter Gordon Ramsay style, finely mince garlic and sauté it in unsalted butter over low heat. Add fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture until smooth, then use it as a sauce or marinade for meats and seafood.
Why is chicken soaked in buttermilk?
Chicken is soaked in buttermilk to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor. The acidity in buttermilk breaks down proteins, resulting in juicy and tender chicken. It’s a popular technique for fried chicken recipes.
Why does butter chicken taste so good?
Butter chicken tastes so good because of its balance of flavors. The creamy butter and cream offset the tangy tomatoes, while the blend of spices adds depth without overpowering the dish. This harmony creates a comforting and indulgent experience.
What thickens butter chicken sauce?
Butter chicken sauce is thickened using heavy cream, ground nuts (such as cashews or almonds), or tomato paste. These ingredients give the sauce its signature rich and velvety texture.
What’s the difference between curry chicken and butter chicken?
Curry chicken is a broad term for chicken cooked in a spiced gravy, which can vary widely in flavor and texture. Butter chicken, on the other hand, is a specific dish with a creamy tomato-based sauce, butter, and mild spices, making it richer and less spicy than traditional curries.
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Conclusion
This *garlic butter chicken recipe* is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try experimenting with variations and sides to make it uniquely yours!
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