Garlic Butter Chicken

This Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal. With juicy chicken bites enveloped in rich garlic butter, paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. This dish is ideal for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion when you need to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap out the pasta for your favorite type or use different seasonings to match your taste preferences.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
• Comfort Food: The warm, hearty flavors make it a comforting choice any time of year.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic Butter Chicken, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large pan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Large pan: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the garlic butter sauce in one vessel.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth creamy sauce by thoroughly mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

This easy-to-make dish features juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with creamy Parmesan pasta for a comforting meal in under 30 minutes.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Pasta

• 12 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until it’s just tender. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium where you cooked the chicken. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pan. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with garlic butter. Ensure each piece is coated evenly with this delicious sauce.

Step 5: Make Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In another pan, melt some additional butter over medium heat. Sauté extra minced garlic briefly before adding heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a soft simmer.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese gradually until your sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss your cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce until it’s evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Plate your pasta first, then top it generously with those flavorful garlic butter chicken bites.

Step 9: Garnish

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. If desired, drizzle some extra garlic butter on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken served alongside creamy Parmesan pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• This classic pairing allows the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken to complement the creamy pasta. Toss the chicken with your favorite noodles for a delicious bite.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a healthy and colorful plate. The veggies add freshness and balance out the richness of the dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• For a hearty option, place the garlic butter chicken atop a bed of fluffy rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite flavorful.

In a Wrap

• Create a satisfying wrap using tortillas filled with garlic butter chicken, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner on-the-go.

As Part of a Salad

• Slice the chicken and toss it into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your garlic butter chicken with slices of crusty bread. Use the bread to soak up any leftover sauce for an irresistible experience.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced options. It enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning. This prevents steaming instead of searing.
• Let it Rest: Allow your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices for a tender bite.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference for flavor intensity.
• Add Extra Flavor: For an additional layer of flavor, consider adding lemon juice or zest before serving. It brightens up the dish beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken can elevate your meal experience significantly. Here are some delightful options.

1. Garlic Bread: A perfect complement that allows you to enjoy every bit of the garlic sauce left on your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing balances well with the rich flavors of the chicken.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer texture and heartiness alongside your meal.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, cutting through the richness of garlic butter.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides an excellent healthy option while keeping things filling.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve zucchini noodles sautéed lightly in olive oil as a base for your chicken.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes nicely; grill or boil it for maximum flavor.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings both color and nutrition to your plate, enhancing presentation as well as taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Avoiding these mistakes can ensure a delicious and satisfying meal.

• Overcooking the chicken – This can make it dry and tough. Always cook until just golden and no longer pink inside.
• Not seasoning properly – Under-seasoned chicken can taste bland. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously.
• Ignoring the pasta cooking time – Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Forgetting to garnish – Skipping the parsley can diminish the dish’s visual appeal. Always add fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
• Using pre-minced garlic – Fresh garlic has a stronger flavor than pre-minced. Chop your own for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place cooled Garlic Butter Chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat while stirring to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Garlic Butter Chicken.

Can I use frozen chicken?

You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.

What kind of pasta works best with Garlic Butter Chicken?

Fettuccine is ideal due to its thickness, but you can use any pasta you prefer such as penne or spaghetti.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also switch out the Parmesan cheese for another variety if desired.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives and check labels on all ingredients used.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not inherently spicy; however, you can add red pepper flakes for some heat if you like!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile enough for various tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this dish delivers! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking adventure!