Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken is a favorite among many food enthusiasts for its savory and tangy flavor profile that comes from the perfect balance of garlic, butter, and spices. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course with some steamed vegetables or served over rice for a complete meal. The recipe below will guide you through making this delicious dish right at home in just under an hour.

The cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, which includes marinating the chicken and then preparing it on the stove top. This dish serves four people comfortably.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced finely
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

To begin with, mix the minced garlic, ground cumin, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a shallow dish or zip lock bag. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can permeate through the chicken. This step is crucial as it helps create that perfect balance between savory and tangy flavors.

After marinating, preheat your oven or gas grill to medium heat if you're grilling outside. If using an oven, place a rack on a sheet tray lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

If Grilling:

Prepare the chicken by patting it dry and then brushing each piece with olive oil.
Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it so that the outside doesn't burn while the inside remains pink.

If Baking:

Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Ensure that no juices run clear from the thickest part of the meat when you cut into it.

Finding the Perfect Garlic Butter Glaze:

While your chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic butter sauce. Melt the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant but not browned. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika for extra flavor (optional). Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.

Once your chicken is ready, remove from oven or grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into smaller pieces. Pour the garlic butter sauce over each piece of chicken to coat them in a rich, garlicky glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before adding salt and pepper. Garlic is quite strong on its own; sometimes it might not need additional seasoning.
Experiment with Spices: Swap out cumin for coriander or use a mix of spices like garam masala to add new layers of flavor. You can even add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano during the cooking process.
Braising Option: For an extra juicy and tender result, cook chicken pieces slowly in broth with garlic butter sauce until they're fork-tender.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional information per serving of Garlic Butter Chicken includes approximately 306 calories, 17 grams protein, 9 grams fat (4g saturated), and 5 grams carbohydrates. Please note that these values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient selection.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken is not just about the delicious flavors but also about bringing family and friends together during mealtime. Whether you're grilling it al fresco or baking it in your kitchen, this recipe ensures everyone gets a taste of summer all year round.

Beyond just being a comforting meal, Garlic Butter Chicken serves as an excellent showcase for creative cooking techniques. From the initial marination process to finishing with a rich garlic butter glaze, each step adds depth and complexity to your culinary skills.