Introduction
Garlic butter chicken is a beloved dish due to its rich flavors and easy preparation. It’s a fantastic dinner option for those who enjoy hearty, flavorful meals that come together in a short amount of time. Paired with fresh broccoli and a decadent garlic butter sauce, this dish can be served with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The versatility and depth of flavor in this recipe make it a winner every time.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. It’s important to use fresh, high-quality chicken and ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to make your chicken in garlic butter sauce with broccoli.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp paprika evenly on both sides of the chicken cutlets. This simple seasoning blend will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and make it perfectly savory.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook them for 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. This step ensures a crisp outer layer while keeping the chicken moist inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the same pan and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté them for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Now, pour in 1 cup chicken broth and stir in ½ cup heavy cream (if you’re opting for a creamy sauce). Add ½ tsp Italian seasoning and ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, if you want to add a bit of heat). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce and allow the flavors to combine.
5. Cook the Broccoli
Next, add the 2 cups of broccoli florets into the pan with the sauce. Stir to coat the broccoli with the sauce and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender but still crisp. The broccoli should remain bright green, providing both color and texture to the dish.
6. Combine Everything
Return the seared chicken to the pan and coat it with the garlic butter sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes, allowing it to soak up the flavor and become tender.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked and well combined, it’s time to serve! Garnish your garlic butter chicken with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added savory touch. Serve the dish alongside rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them before cooking for even cooking. Frozen chicken will require longer cooking times, so make sure to cook it thoroughly.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or almond milk.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to this dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some freshly chopped jalapeños or chili peppers while cooking the garlic.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just be sure to cook them until they are tender but still crisp to maintain their flavor and texture.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the chicken and broccoli retain their texture and flavor. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, you can store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion
Chicken in garlic butter sauce with broccoli is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal when you want to impress your family or guests. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and vibrant broccoli offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that promises comfort and satisfaction every time you make it.
By following the step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this recipe and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal in no time. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese to elevate the dish! Happy cooking!