Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garlic butter chicken is a favorite in many households for its simplicity and delicious taste. This recipe will guide you through creating this tasty dish with minimal effort. The cooking time for one batch of garlic butter chicken is approximately 45 minutes, and it serves four people perfectly.

To start preparing the garlic butter chicken, first, gather all your ingredients: boneless chicken thighs (or breasts), garlic cloves, olive oil or any preferred cooking oil, fresh cilantro, lemon juice, salt, pepper, butter, garam masala powder, and cumin seeds. These are essential for making a flavorful dish that will please the whole family.

Begin by marinating your chicken. Slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Peel and finely chop three to four garlic cloves. Combine the chopped garlic with olive oil, salt, pepper, garam masala powder, cumin seeds, and lemon juice in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until evenly coated.

Heat a pan over medium heat and add butter. Let it melt fully before adding the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir gently and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). While cooking, occasionally stir in the marinade to allow the flavors to meld together.

Once the chicken has been properly cooked, transfer it to a plate. Add more butter and garlic to the pan and sauté for another couple of minutes until golden brown. Stir in a generous amount of fresh cilantro, then return the chicken pieces back into the pan to coat with the rich butter sauce.

Allow the dish to simmer on low heat for at least 5-10 minutes so that all flavors become well integrated and the sauce thickens up slightly. Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired.

To serve, arrange portions of garlic butter chicken over steamed rice or flatbread. The golden-brown chicken pieces paired with a creamy, garlicky butter sauce provide an exquisite flavor combination that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro and garlic contribute significantly to the overall taste. Opting for fresh over frozen or canned versions ensures better results.
• Fresh vs Dried Garlic: For more intense garlic flavor, use fresh cloves. However, if you prefer less pronounced garlic taste, dried garlic powder can be a good alternative.
• Pan Selection: Make sure to use a large enough pan to accommodate all the chicken pieces without overcrowding. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents steaming instead of browning the chicken.

Cooking garlic butter chicken is a delightful experience that can be enjoyed by beginners as well as seasoned cooks alike. With just basic ingredients, you can create an amazing meal that is both comforting and satisfying. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to all who wish to enjoy delicious, homemade cuisine.

Garlic Butter Chicken not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy balance of protein from the chicken along with essential nutrients found in the fresh herbs used. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to prepare.

Conclusion

Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken is an easy process that yields delicious results every time. From marinating your chicken to letting it simmer with a rich butter sauce, each step contributes to creating this beloved dish. Whether served over rice or flatbread, this meal promises to be a hit at home. So why not try making garlic butter chicken today and see for yourself what all the fuss is about!