Indulge in the irresistible flavors of garlic butter chicken, a dish that marries juicy chicken with rich, aromatic garlic butter. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself returning to this dish time and again. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary journey!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
– 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 28g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional value is based on a serving size of one chicken thigh.
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 both sides with salt and pepper.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken thighs and sprinkle thyme over them.
7. Spoon some of the garlic butter over each thigh.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, olive oil can replace butter for a healthier alternative, and feel free to mix in your favorite herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic butter chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a comforting meal, serve it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover garlic butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcrowding the skillet; it can prevent proper searing.
– Don’t skip patting the chicken dry for a crispy skin.
– Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.
– Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for perfect results.
Helpful Tips
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving for juiciness.
– Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
– For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the butter sauce.
– Use leftover garlic butter as a spread for bread or vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a shorter cooking time to prevent drying out.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter for a spicy kick.
What can I serve with garlic butter chicken?
This dish goes well with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken just before serving for the best texture.
Is it possible to freeze the garlic butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Ensure it’s in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Garlic butter chicken is a delectable dish that promises to satisfy your taste buds with its rich flavors and tender meat. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the savory goodness and make it a regular part of your culinary repertoire!
Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs and sprinkle thyme over them.
- Spoon some of the garlic butter over each thigh.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
