This Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich taste of garlic butter with crispy, golden chicken breasts. Coated in a simple flour mixture and finished with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. Served with a garnish of fresh parsley, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off excess flour.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: For a fresh, zesty flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the sauce and garnish with lemon zest.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to the sauce to restore its creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook, around 10-12 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? While Parmesan is recommended for its salty, nutty flavor, you can use other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano if preferred.
- What can I serve with this dish? This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables.
- Can I make this recipe without cream? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Use a dairy-free butter substitute and skip the Parmesan cheese or opt for a plant-based cheese alternative.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or when the juices run clear.
- Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.
- What’s the best way to thicken the sauce? If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Can I use olive oil instead of butter? While butter provides a rich flavor, olive oil can be used as a substitute for a lighter option.
- Can I make this recipe without garlic? While garlic is essential for the flavor, you can try other seasonings like onion powder or shallots for a different taste.
Conclusion
Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The golden, crispy chicken combined with the creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce is a winning combination. Whether served with your favorite side dish or on its own, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and simple preparation that make this dish so irresistible!