Indulge in this garlic butter chicken recipe that promises to elevate your dinner experience. Juicy chicken pieces are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, resulting in a dish that is both savory and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its delightful aroma and taste. Let’s dive into the details and bring this flavorful dish to your table!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: vegetables for roasting (zucchini, potatoes, carrots)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice.
8. Sprinkle thyme and parsley over the chicken.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
10. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (75°C).
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter.
Serving and Pairings
This garlic butter chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can result in dryness; use a thermometer to check doneness.
- Not seasoning the chicken well enough can lead to bland flavor.
- Using too much heat can burn the garlic; add it later in the cooking process.
- Skipping the searing step can prevent a nice crust from forming.
- Not letting the chicken rest after cooking can cause juices to escape.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Let the chicken marinate for a few hours for enhanced flavor.
- Pair the dish with a refreshing side salad for balance.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster than thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a kick of heat.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes can enhance the dish and make it a complete meal.
What should I serve with garlic butter chicken?
It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
This garlic butter chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and flavor. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a meal that impresses family and friends alike. Enjoy the rich, buttery taste that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: vegetables for roasting zucchini, potatoes, carrots
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle thyme and parsley over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F (75°C).
Nutrition
