Garlic Butter Chicken Delight

This garlic butter chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. The combination of butter, garlic, and wine creates an irresistible sauce that coats each piece of chicken perfectly, making it juicy and flavorful from the inside out.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick dinner solution that would still impress my family. Now it has become our go-to meal whenever anyone asks for "something special" but I don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Look for uniform-sized pieces or pound them to even thickness for perfect cooking
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil as it forms the base of your searing
• 21 Salute Seasoning or poultry seasoning: This spice blend adds complexity without requiring a dozen individual spices
• White wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce. Choose a dry variety you’d also enjoy drinking
• Butter: Creates the rich, silky texture in the sauce. Unsalted gives you better control over the final flavor
• Fresh garlic: Freshly minced provides the most vibrant flavor. Pre-minced works in a pinch but lacks the same punch
• Fresh parsley: Optional but adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with 21 Salute, salt and pepper, then place in the hot pan. Let it cook completely undisturbed for 5 minutes until golden brown. Resist the urge to move it as this will interrupt the crucial crust formation.

Flip and Finish Cooking:

Turn chicken to the second side and cook for another 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be golden brown with a beautiful crust. Again, allow it to cook undisturbed.

Rest the Chicken:

Remove chicken to a plate to rest. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when cut.

Create the Sauce Base:

Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it bubble vigorously for a few seconds to burn off the alcohol.

Build the Garlic Butter:

Add butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely while stirring continuously. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about one minute. Be careful not to brown the garlic or it will become bitter.

Finish the Dish:

Return chicken to the pan, turning to coat each piece thoroughly in the sauce. Spoon additional sauce over the top of each piece. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

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The 21 Salute Seasoning from Trader Joe's is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it years ago and now keep multiple jars on hand. The blend of 21 spices and herbs adds complexity that makes guests think you spent hours developing flavors.

Perfect Wine Pairing

The same wine you use in cooking makes an excellent pairing for serving. A crisp Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay complements the buttery sauce without overpowering the delicate garlic flavors. Pour a small glass for cooking and save the rest for dinner to experience how the flavors in the dish echo those in your glass.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to a skillet, bring to a simmer, and gently warm the chicken through. This prevents the chicken from drying out and revitalizes the sauce. For longer storage, freeze for up to 4 months in a freezer-safe container.

Variation Ideas

While this recipe is perfect as written, you can customize it to your taste preferences. Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness. Stir in a handful of baby spinach just before serving for color and nutrition. Or add halved cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking for bursts of sweet acidity against the rich sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute white wine in the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be rich and delicious.

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Make sure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness and avoid moving it while it sears. This helps create a golden crust that locks in moisture.

→ Can I use other seasonings for this dish?

Absolutely! While 21 Salute Seasoning is recommended, you can use poultry seasoning or even simple herbs like thyme or oregano.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Serve the chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra sauce if needed to maintain moisture.