Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bliss
Dive into the rich flavors of this Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes! With its golden, crispy edges and tender texture, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Share your experience after making it!
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
3 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt & pepper
Fresh parsley
Instructions:
Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Melt butter, add garlic, and brown the chicken.
Add potatoes, cover, and cook until they are soft and flavorful.
Sprinkle parsley on top and enjoy!
#ButterBliss
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, pat the chicken breasts and halved baby potatoes completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a golden sear. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or pan with a tight-fitting lid, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming, add the minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the chicken breasts, cooking for 5-7 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Remove the chicken to a plate. Add the potatoes to the same skillet, cut-side down. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the potatoes. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with the lid, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring the potatoes occasionally, until they are fork-tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty one-pan meal is delicious on its own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed cauliflower to soak up the incredible garlic butter sauce. For a fresh contrast, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette or some simple steamed green beans or asparagus. Garnish with not just parsley, but also a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
How-to Summary
In short: Dry your protein and potatoes, sear seasoned chicken in garlic butter, remove, sear potatoes, then return chicken to the pan, cover, and cook until everything is tender and juicy. Finish with fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs add even more flavor and stay incredibly juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
My potatoes aren’t cooking through. What happened? Ensure your potato halves are uniformly sized (about 1-inch pieces) and that the pan is covered tightly after adding them. The steam created under the lid is essential for cooking them through.
How can I prevent the garlic from burning? Add the garlic to the melted butter and stir constantly for only about 30 seconds before adding the chicken. If it cooks too long over high heat, it will turn bitter.
Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth.
What can I substitute for butter? For a dairy-free version, a high-heat oil like avocado oil works for searing. Add a tablespoon of olive oil at the end for richness, or use a plant-based butter alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Avoid adding too many potatoes at once. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure they sear instead of steam.
- Underseasoning: Season the chicken and potatoes well at the start. The seasoning penetrates during cooking.
- High Heat Throughout: After the initial sear, reducing the heat and covering the pan is vital to cook the potatoes through without burning the garlic butter.
- Using Huge Potato Halves: If your baby potatoes are large, quarter them so they cook at the same rate as the chicken.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly blissful meal. The combination of crispy, golden chicken, tender potatoes, and a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce is universally appealing and perfect for any night of the week. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a flavorful, satisfying dish that will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to garnish with that fresh parsley for the perfect finish!