Buttery Garlic Herb Chicken

This Buttery Garlic Herb Chicken is a succulent, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, buttery garlic herb sauce that’s both comforting and delicious. With its simple preparation and incredible flavor, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Rich flavors: The combination of garlic, herbs, and butter creates a luxurious sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add herbs: Stir in the fresh herbs, ensuring they’re well combined with the butter and garlic.
5. Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve: Plate the chicken and spoon the buttery garlic herb sauce over the top. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Include mushrooms, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes in the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.
• Change the protein: Try this recipe with boneless chicken thighs, pork chops, or even salmon fillets.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a hint of heat.
• Lemon flavor: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the quantity to about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or margarine.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and keep the heat at medium. Basting the chicken with the sauce helps retain moisture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and make the sauce a day in advance. Store them separately and reheat together before serving.

What’s the best way to mince garlic?

Use a garlic press or finely chop with a knife for the best texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale the ingredients accordingly. Use a larger skillet to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Buttery Garlic Herb Chicken is a delectable dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Its rich, buttery flavor and aromatic herbs make it a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and savor every bite!

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