Delight your taste buds with the savory goodness of Garlic Butter Chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich garlic butter sauce and cheesy topping. Perfect for any mealtime, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb. baby potatoes (if larger than one-inch, slice in half)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or less, to taste)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded Italian blend cheese
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then arrange them in a single layer in a casserole dish. Add the baby potatoes around the chicken.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Coat Chicken and Potatoes: Pour the garlic butter over the chicken and potatoes in the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the red pepper flakes and dried parsley over the chicken and potatoes.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the chicken is almost cooked through. Top evenly with both types of cheese, remaining red pepper flakes, and dried parsley. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for the last minute to lightly brown the cheese.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving Garlic Butter Chicken, garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple touch enhances the dish’s visual appeal and elevates its presentation.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve Garlic Butter Chicken alongside a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The vibrant flavors of the side dishes complement the richness of the chicken dish beautifully.
- Family-Friendly Option: For a family-friendly twist, serve Garlic Butter Chicken with a side of buttered noodles or fluffy white rice. The mild flavors of these starches provide a comforting contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken and potatoes, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Leftover Makeover: Transform leftover Garlic Butter Chicken into a delicious pasta dish by shredding the chicken and tossing it with cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy Alfredo sauce. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Reheating Instructions: When reheating leftover Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
- Storage Guidelines: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date for easy reference.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Garlic Butter Chicken is an excellent dish for meal prep. Prepare a batch ahead of time and portion it into individual containers for quick and convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy whenever hunger strikes.
- Refreshing Accompaniments: Pair Garlic Butter Chicken with refreshing beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These beverages provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience.
- Creative Leftover Ideas: Repurpose leftover Garlic Butter Chicken into sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas for a tasty lunch option. Simply shred the chicken, add your favorite toppings and condiments, and enjoy a satisfying meal on the go.
- Enjoy Every Bite: Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, savor every delicious bite of Garlic Butter Chicken. Its rich flavors and comforting appeal make it a mealtime favorite that’s sure to please the whole family.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add a burst of freshness to the Garlic Butter Chicken by incorporating lemon zest and fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the butter sauce. The citrusy brightness and aromatic herbs complement the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, amp up the flavor by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an extra spicy twist that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Elevate the indulgence factor by turning the garlic butter sauce into a creamy Parmesan sauce. Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the melted butter and garlic mixture, then simmer until thickened. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and potatoes before baking for a luxurious twist.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Chicken: Infuse the Garlic Butter Chicken with Mediterranean flavors by adding ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese. These ingredients add depth of flavor and a touch of brininess that transports your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean.
- Honey Garlic Butter Chicken: Create a sweet and savory flavor profile by incorporating honey into the garlic butter sauce. The natural sweetness of the honey balances the richness of the butter and garlic, resulting in a delectable glaze that coats the chicken and potatoes.
- Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the chicken and potatoes before baking to add a tangy twist to the dish. The acidity of the balsamic vinegar cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Pesto Chicken Bake: Replace the garlic butter sauce with basil pesto for a vibrant and herbaceous twist on the classic recipe. Spread a layer of pesto over the chicken breasts and potatoes before baking, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, flavorful finish.
- Barbecue Chicken Bake: Give the Garlic Butter Chicken a barbecue-inspired makeover by brushing the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce before baking. The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce adds depth of flavor and a touch of summer-inspired flair to the dish.
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that thighs may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
- Is it necessary to peel the baby potatoes? No, you can leave the skins on the baby potatoes for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before using.
- Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic? Absolutely! Fresh garlic cloves can be minced or finely chopped and used in place of minced garlic. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make Garlic Butter Chicken gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including the butter and cheese, are certified gluten-free. You can also substitute gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
- What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken? Garlic Butter Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, salad, garlic bread, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that never fails to impress. With its flavorful garlic butter sauce and cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes for a satisfying and memorable meal that everyone will love!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Description
Delight your taste buds with the savory goodness of Garlic Butter Chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich garlic butter sauce and cheesy topping. Perfect for any mealtime, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb. baby potatoes (if larger than one-inch, slice in half)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or less, to taste)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded Italian blend cheese
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then arrange them in a single layer in a casserole dish. Add the baby potatoes around the chicken.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Coat Chicken and Potatoes: Pour the garlic butter over the chicken and potatoes in the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the red pepper flakes and dried parsley over the chicken and potatoes.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the chicken is almost cooked through. Top evenly with both types of cheese, remaining red pepper flakes, and dried parsley. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for the last minute to lightly brown the cheese.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Notes
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving Garlic Butter Chicken, garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple touch enhances the dish’s visual appeal and elevates its presentation.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve Garlic Butter Chicken alongside a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The vibrant flavors of the side dishes complement the richness of the chicken dish beautifully.
- Family-Friendly Option: For a family-friendly twist, serve Garlic Butter Chicken with a side of buttered noodles or fluffy white rice. The mild flavors of these starches provide a comforting contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken and potatoes, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Leftover Makeover: Transform leftover Garlic Butter Chicken into a delicious pasta dish by shredding the chicken and tossing it with cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy Alfredo sauce. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Reheating Instructions: When reheating leftover Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
- Storage Guidelines: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date for easy reference.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Garlic Butter Chicken is an excellent dish for meal prep. Prepare a batch ahead of time and portion it into individual containers for quick and convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy whenever hunger strikes.
- Refreshing Accompaniments: Pair Garlic Butter Chicken with refreshing beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These beverages provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience.
- Creative Leftover Ideas: Repurpose leftover Garlic Butter Chicken into sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas for a tasty lunch option. Simply shred the chicken, add your favorite toppings and condiments, and enjoy a satisfying meal on the go.
- Enjoy Every Bite: Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, savor every delicious bite of Garlic Butter Chicken. Its rich flavors and comforting appeal make it a mealtime favorite that’s sure to please the whole family.