Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Yet Juicy: Achieves a delightful balance of crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce: The rich, garlicky butter sauce adds an indulgent touch without overwhelming the taste of the chicken.
- Customizable: Works well with chicken thighs or breasts, and pairs beautifully with a range of sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or substitute with breasts if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – For a light coating that crisps up nicely.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and a touch of smokiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances and balances the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For achieving that golden sear.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided – The base of the luxurious garlic sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic for maximum aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a hint of herbs.
- Fresh parsley, chopped – Optional garnish for color and freshness.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. This will give the chicken a well-rounded flavor. Dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, making sure to coat lightly and evenly. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is crispy and a beautiful golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter and allow it to melt. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. This will release the garlic’s full flavor, infusing it into the butter sauce.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it directly into the garlic butter sauce. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and spoon the sauce over each piece of chicken to coat thoroughly. Let it cook for another minute or so until everything is warmed through.
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm alongside mashed potatoes, a green salad, or your favorite veggie side.
Helpful Tips
- Pat Chicken Dry: For extra crispiness, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and coating in flour.
- Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it when cooking in the butter. You’re aiming for a light golden color, not brown or burnt.
- Add Lemon for Zing: A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken right before serving adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the butter.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (use gluten-free flour)
Notes
- For Meal Prep: This chicken can be prepped ahead by seasoning and dredging earlier in the day. When ready to cook, proceed with heating the oil and cooking as directed.
- Reheating Tip: To retain crispiness, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat rather than in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 35g
- Sodium: 210mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, though they may cook a little faster. To avoid drying them out, keep an eye on the cook time.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use additional olive oil in place of the butter.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This helps retain the chicken’s crispiness better than a microwave, though microwaving will work in a pinch!
Conclusion
This Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken is an easy recipe packed with savory flavors and a satisfying crispy texture. With its garlic butter sauce, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this dish is designed to be foolproof and fantastic. Try it out, and let the simplicity and bold flavors make dinnertime something special!