Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comforting flavors with a simple cooking process, look no further than this Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet. Perfectly seared chicken thighs bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. The aromatic blend of garlic and buttery goodness creates an irresistible scent that will have everyone gathering around the kitchen in anticipation.

What makes this dish even more enticing is the array of toppings you can add. Think crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of gooey cheese that melts into the savory sauce, elevating each bite to sheer perfection. Packed with protein and flavor, this skillet dish is not only satisfying but also versatile; you can serve it over rice, pasta, or even a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a small gathering, this Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is bound to impress. So grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to savor one of the most delicious meals you’ll ever whip up!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika on both sides.
2. 1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. 1. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. 1. In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
5. 1. Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken, allowing it to melt as it heats through.
6. 1. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
7. Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4

Key Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste; optional paprika and Italian seasoning for extra flavor
• Vegetables: 1 cup of diced bell peppers (mix of colors), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and 1 cup of spinach or kale
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (more for serving if desired)
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, for a zesty finish
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a spicy kick

Baking Process

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment for optimal cooking, allowing your chicken to sear properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional spices of your choice, like paprika or Italian seasoning. If desired, you can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

3. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt a generous amount of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly and slightly brown, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear on each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This process locks in moisture and adds a rich depth of flavor.

4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: After searing the chicken, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then stir in additional butter and any herbs you wish to include, such as thyme or parsley. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

5. Add Vegetables: If you’re including vegetables, now is the time to add them. Things like baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli work great. Toss the vegetables in the garlic butter, ensuring they’re well-coated.

6. Bake the Skillet: Once everything is combined, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. This will ensure a juicy chicken with perfectly tender vegetables.

7. Broil for Added Flavor: For an extra touch, you can place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. This will create a beautiful crust on the chicken and give the garlic butter sauce a nice glaze.

8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, and enjoy the succulent flavors of your loaded garlic butter chicken skillet!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet and create a delicious, well-rounded meal, consider the following serving suggestions:

1. Over Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains will soak up the creamy garlic butter sauce, making each bite flavorful.

2. With Pasta: Toss your skillet dish with cooked pasta for a hearty meal. Choose fettuccine, penne, or even a gluten-free option for variation.

3. On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter option, serve the chicken on a bed of fresh spinach, arugula, or mixed greens. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

4. Side of Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. The crunch and freshness of the vegetables will complement the richness of the skillet dish.

5. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Offer some crusty garlic bread or warm breadsticks on the side for dipping into the luscious garlic butter sauce.

6. With a Salad: A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice balance to the richness of the chicken. Consider a simple cucumber and tomato salad or a Caesar salad.

7. Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives before serving. It adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.

8. Served Family-Style: For family dinners, serve the Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet in the middle of the table and let everyone help themselves. Accompany with various sides like coleslaw or mac and cheese for a comforting feast.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and hearty components!

Conclusion

The Loaded Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken, an abundance of garlic, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the best part is how quick and easy it is to whip up in just one skillet.

Feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch. Serve this scrumptious dish over rice, pasta, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce. Don’t forget to share your creations and any variations you try! Happy cooking!

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