Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garlic butter chicken is a classic dish that combines the rich taste of garlic with tender, flavorful chicken. This recipe will guide you through creating this popular favorite in your own kitchen.

The aroma from simmering onions and spices can fill an entire house. The combination of sweet onions and the sharp garlic, along with the succulent chicken, is simply irresistible. This simple dish, though it sounds easy to make, creates a delicious meal that is sure to be loved by all your guests or family members.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients You Will Need

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Garnish: fresh cilantro leaves or chopped green onions (optional)

Steps to Make Garlic Butter Chicken

To start with, let's prep the chicken breasts. Cut each breast into two smaller portions for even cooking. Then, in a bowl, mix minced garlic and finely chopped onion. This will allow for better flavor distribution throughout the dish.

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Be careful not to burn the bottom of the pan.
2. Once all chicken has been seared, remove them from the heat and add butter in the same skillet. Let it melt completely over low heat so that you can then stir in garlic and onion mixture, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes to the pan with garam masala and cumin powder. Season generously with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Return the chicken pieces into the skillet. Allow them to cook in the flavorful sauce for another 10-12 minutes or until the sauce is thickened slightly but still pourable over the chicken.

Once done, taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can garnish the plate with fresh cilantro leaves or chopped green onions. Serve hot with basmati rice to absorb every bit of delicious sauce.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

• If you prefer less spiciness, use fewer tomatoes in your recipe. More tomatoes will make the dish more sour but also thicker and creamier.
• For extra flavor, try using Greek yogurt to finish off the sauce before adding chicken back into it. It thickens the sauce beautifully without being too heavy for the taste buds.
• If you like a bit of heat in your meal, consider adding some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper during cooking. Start small and work your way up to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

Health Benefits of Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic butter chicken is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Garlic, a powerful ingredient in this dish, is rich in antioxidants which help protect cells against damage and reduce inflammation. It can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and even prevent certain types of cancer.

The combination of chicken and vegetables provides you with essential proteins and vitamins necessary for maintaining good health. Chicken breast specifically is a lean protein source that helps build and repair tissues in the body while promoting muscle growth. Vegetables like onions add fiber to your diet which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer after meals.

Conclusion

Garlic butter chicken stands out as one of those recipes that can be easily prepared yet delivers a delightful taste experience every time. Whether it’s for an everyday dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints! By following the simple steps mentioned above and utilizing fresh ingredients, you’ll have a meal that is not only comforting but also nutritious.