Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with buttery garlic sauce and cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect weeknight recipe that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills but will impress your family or guests at the dinner table. The addition of baby potatoes makes it a complete meal in one dish, bringing both protein and carbs together for a satisfying experience. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this dish will fit perfectly into your culinary repertoire.

Why Make This Recipe

There are several reasons to love Garlic Butter Chicken. For starters, the rich buttery and garlicky flavor makes each bite absolutely delicious. It’s also a one-pan dish, which means you spend less time cleaning up after cooking. Moreover, it’s a versatile recipe; you can adjust ingredient quantities and make it your own.

The use of simple, fresh ingredients like chicken, garlic, and butter means you can easily find everything you need. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce yourself to more complex flavors without overwhelming your palate. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but easy.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is quite straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without too much fuss. Follow the simple steps below to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lb. baby potatoes (if larger than one-inch, slice in half)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or less to taste)
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup shredded Italian blend cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, you can start prepping your dish.

2. Prepare the chicken and potatoes: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Place them in a single layer in a casserole dish, then add the baby potatoes on top.

3. Make the garlic butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the garlic butter to cool for about 5 minutes.

4. Combine everything: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the seasoned chicken and potatoes. Sprinkle half the red pepper flakes and half the dried parsley over the dish for added flavor.

5. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes. The chicken should be almost cooked through at this point.

6. Add the cheese: Take the dish out of the oven and top it evenly with both mozzarella and Italian blend cheese. Add the remaining dried parsley and red pepper flakes.

7. Finish baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a final touch, turn on the broiler for the last minute to lightly brown the tops. Keep a close eye on it, as broilers can be unpredictable.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a complete meal in itself, especially when paired with the baby potatoes. You can serve it hot straight from the oven. To make the presentation more appealing, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of extra dried parsley or freshly chopped herbs.

For a more rounded meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to add some color and nutrition. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the garlic and butter flavors beautifully.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store Garlic Butter Chicken easily. First, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the chicken and potatoes to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker heating. If it seems dry after heating, consider adding a bit of chicken broth or a splash of water when reheating to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

• Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are even in size for consistent cooking. You may pound them slightly to achieve uniformity.

• Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Minced garlic that is pre-packaged may not have the same aromatic qualities.

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, gouda, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can take this dish in a new direction.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. You can also substitute it with paprika for a milder flavor.

Variations

Garlic Butter Chicken can be easily adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

• Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried parsley for a more vibrant flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredient labels to ensure that any packaged items are gluten-free.

• Lemon Zest: For a zesty kick, add some lemon zest to the garlic butter before pouring it over the chicken and potatoes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They will add a richer flavor and remain tender during cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and potatoes ahead of time, season them, and store them in the fridge. Then, simply bake when you’re ready to eat.

3. What’s the best way to tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Using an instant-read thermometer is the best method. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, cool the dish completely before wrapping tightly in foil or placing it in an airtight container.

In conclusion, Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone who craves comfort food without excessive effort in the kitchen. Give it a try, and you may find it becoming a favorite in no time!