Garlic Butter Chicken
This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of juicy chicken bites coated in rich, buttery garlic sauce, served with creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. The balance of flavor and comfort makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic nights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve the garlic butter chicken with any pasta or side you prefer for a personalized touch.
- Crowd Pleaser: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Comfort Food Classic: It brings warmth and satisfaction, ideal for cozy evenings at home.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
- Large pan: Perfect for searing chicken evenly and creating that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when combining the cream and cheese in the sauce.
Ingredients
This easy-to-make dish features juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with creamy Parmesan pasta for a comforting meal in under 30 minutes.
For the Garlic Butter Chicken
- Chicken breasts, boneless, skinless: 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Butter, unsalted: 4 tablespoons.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
- Salt and pepper: to taste.
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon.
- Parsley, fresh: chopped, for garnish.
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Fettuccine or any preferred pasta: 12 oz.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 1 cup.
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup.
- Salt and pepper: to taste.
- Extra garlic butter: optional, for drizzling.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling:
1. Add the pasta to the pot.
2. Cook until it’s just tender (al dente).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large pan over medium-high heat:
1. Heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Toss in the chicken pieces evenly across the pan.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium in the same pan:
1. Melt the butter completely.
2. Add minced garlic; sauté briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Return cooked chicken to the pan; toss to coat with garlic butter sauce.
Step 4: Create Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate pan:
1. Melt additional butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté extra minced garlic briefly (about 30 seconds).
3. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce
- Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until thickened and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Toss cooked pasta into creamy Parmesan sauce until well-coated.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
- Plate the creamy pasta first on each dish.
- Top generously with garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with fresh parsley; drizzle extra garlic butter if desired.
This simple yet flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken recipe offers an unforgettable dining experience that you can whip up any night of the week! Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its delicious flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
On a Bed of Creamy Pasta
- Serve the garlic butter chicken over a generous portion of creamy Parmesan pasta for a rich and comforting dish.
- Drizzle extra garlic butter on top for added flavor and richness.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette complements the rich chicken perfectly.
- Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
As a Wrap or Sandwich
- Use the garlic butter chicken as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauces for an easy lunch option.
- Whole wheat wraps add a nutritious touch to this savory filling.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic finish. It adds color and freshness to the plate.
- A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors even more.
With Garlic Bread
- Serve alongside warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. The crunchiness of the bread pairs well with the soft chicken pieces.
- Toasted baguette slices work wonderfully as well.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
To ensure your garlic butter chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced options when possible.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking chicken in batches prevents steaming and ensures even browning, leading to better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to control the flavors in your dish.
- Let it rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances tenderness.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or oregano along with Italian seasoning for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make it spicy: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken for a spicy kick.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken
Pairing side dishes with garlic butter chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make for a perfect comfort food pairing that complements the flavors of the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering your main dish. A squeeze of lemon enhances its freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Mixed seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and texture that balances nicely with the savory chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese offers a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons creates a classic pairing that never goes out of style.
- Baked Zucchini Fries: These healthy fries are crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them an excellent finger food option alongside your main dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements garlic butter chicken beautifully while providing substance to your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch that pairs wonderfully with buttery dishes like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s golden and cooked through. Overcooked chicken becomes dry.
- Ignoring seasoning: Don’t skip on salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of your dish.
- Not using fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor than pre-minced varieties. Always opt for fresh when possible.
- Cooking pasta improperly: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. This gives it a perfect texture when tossed with the sauce.
- Skipping the garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Never skip this final touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken.
Can I use thighs instead of breasts for Garlic Butter Chicken?
Yes! Chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture, making them a great substitute.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added balance.
How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta for a gluten-free option.
Can I customize the flavors in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, such as rosemary or thyme, for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with different pastas or sides. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Garlic Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken is a succulent dish that combines juicy chicken bites with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, perfectly paired with creamy Parmesan pasta. This delightful recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served over pasta, alongside a fresh salad, or as part of a hearty wrap, this savory meal radiates warmth and comfort. With its quick preparation and versatile serving options, Garlic Butter Chicken is destined to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic (4 for chicken, 2 for pasta)
- 12 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and cook chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Remove from pan.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Return chicken to the pan and toss in the garlic butter sauce.
- In another pan, melt additional butter and sauté remaining minced garlic; stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth; season with salt and pepper. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until well-coated.
- Serve creamy pasta topped with garlic butter chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
