Introduction
When it comes to cozy family nights, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table with a warm, delicious meal that everyone can enjoy. Enter the Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet – a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich, savory butter all cooked together in one skillet for easy cleanup. This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends spent with loved ones.
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filling your kitchen, enticing everyone to come together. This dish is perfect for those evenings when time is short, but you still want to serve something special. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, the Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is here to save the day, ensuring that you can create a memorable meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your skillet and prepare to delight your family with this delightful, comforting dish!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and allow it to melt and bubble.
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- Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano on both sides. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
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- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
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- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. When it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
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- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to add flavor.
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- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and let everything simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
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- Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
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- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the veggies, and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes.
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- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a colorful finish, and serve warm right from the skillet to the table!
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (for that rich, aromatic flavor)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness and a silky texture)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (to help sauté the chicken)
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup (for deglazing the skillet and adding moisture)
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (to create a creamy sauce)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (for a touch of umami and creaminess)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish and freshness)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste (for seasoning)
- Optional Vegetables: Spinach or broccoli (adds color and nutrition)
This recipe balances rich flavors with a quick cooking time, making it a perfect choice for cozy family nights!
Baking Process: Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet for Cozy Family Nights
This Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a comforting, mouth-watering flavor that’s perfect for cozy family nights. While this dish is primarily stove-prepared, the baking method will be shared for those who prefer a baked finish on their chicken. Here’s how to turn your skillet meal into a baked delight.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth for moisture
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and becomes golden brown.
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Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and any additional herbs you desire. Make sure to coat all sides well for the best flavor.
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Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor and a nice texture to the chicken.
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Add Garlic & Herbs: Once the chicken is seared, add the remaining butter to the skillet along with the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano. Stir to combine and sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes and Broth: If using cherry tomatoes and broth, pour them into the skillet now. The broth will keep the chicken moist while it bakes and the tomatoes will add a burst of freshness.
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Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): If you like your chicken with a bit more crispiness on top, switch to the broiler setting for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
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Finish and Garnish: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
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Serve: This dish is ideal served with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Enjoy your cozy family night with this quick and delectable meal!
This baking process not only elevates the flavors but also makes cleanup easier since everything can be done in one pan. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet and create a cozy family dining experience, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Serve with a Side of Steamed Vegetables: Pair the rich, buttery chicken with a medley of seasonal vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or green beans. Lightly steamed vegetables add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Place the garlic butter chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite delectable.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread or baguette slices. Perfect for sopping up the extra garlic butter sauce and enhancing the comfort factor of your meal.
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Rice or Quinoa: For a grain option, consider fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. These grains complement the dish perfectly and add a wholesome touch to the meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: Round out your dinner with a light mixed green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. This contrast will balance the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing bite.
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Herb-Infused Couscous: Fluffy herb-infused couscous makes for an excellent, quick side that adds a gourmet feel without much effort.
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Wine Pairing: Enhance the meal with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which pairs beautifully with garlic and buttery flavors.
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Dessert Ideas: To complete your cozy family night, consider a light dessert like a fruit salad or a simple chocolate mousse. These sweet endings will leave everyone satisfied without feeling too heavy.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your ideal family meal!
Conclusion
This Speedy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is the perfect dish for cozy family nights. With its quick prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love in no time. The rich, buttery garlic sauce elevates the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful, while the beautiful presentation is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a comforting meal to gather around the table, this skillet recipe fits the bill. Enjoy the warmth of good food and great company as you create lasting memories over a comforting, home-cooked meal. Don’t forget to share your version of this recipe on social media and inspire others to enjoy this cozy culinary experience! Happy cooking!
