Garlic Butter Chicken

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 420 min
Total time: 440 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1.5 lbs baby red potatoes, quartered; 1 lb whole carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); 1/2 cup chicken broth

Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing the hard work, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the stress. The combination of juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices makes it a sure hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re a skilled chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Garlic Butter Chicken will impress everyone with its deliciousness and comforting appeal.

Why make this recipe

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is a fantastic idea for several reasons. First, it offers a delectable taste that appeals to both adults and kids alike. The flavors are simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. Second, the slow cooker method introduces convenience into your cooking experience. You can toss in the ingredients earlier in the day and let the slow cooker work its magic while you attend to other tasks.

Another appealing aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it with rice or pasta to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce. Furthermore, this recipe uses common ingredients, meaning you likely have most of them in your kitchen already. Lastly, it’s a healthy option, packed with protein from the chicken and filled with nutritious vegetables. Overall, Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful way to nourish your family while enjoying rich flavors and simple preparation.

How to make Garlic Butter Chicken

Making Garlic Butter Chicken is straightforward and requires little fuss. The process begins with prepping the vegetables and chicken, followed by mixing a flavorful garlic butter sauce that brings everything together. Harnessing the magic of the slow cooker, this recipe ensures that the chicken remains juicy while infusing all the components with delicious flavors.

Once the chicken, potatoes, and carrots are prepped and tossed into the slow cooker, you simply whip up the garlic butter mixture. Pour it over the ingredients, give it a gentle stir, and let the slow cooker take care of the rest. Whether you choose to cook it on low or high, the end result will be a comforting dish bursting with flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1.5 lbs baby red potatoes, quartered
1 lb whole carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup chicken broth

This ingredient list ensures a flavorful meal that is both wholesome and satisfying.

Directions

Toss chicken, potatoes, and carrots into the slow cooker.
In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
Pour the garlic butter mixture over everything in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all pieces.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Plate it up and enjoy.

Following these simple steps will lead you to a beautifully cooked Garlic Butter Chicken sure to impress.

Time Breakdown

Preparation time for Garlic Butter Chicken is around 15–20 minutes, making it a quick dish to bring together before the slow cooking begins. Depending on your chosen setting, cooking time is either 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. Overall, allot about 7–8 hours for the entire process if you decide to use the low setting. This makes it an ideal choice for a day at home or when you need a meal prepped well in advance.

How to serve Garlic Butter Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken is best served hot, right after it finishes cooking. You can plate it up by arranging chicken pieces alongside the tender potatoes and carrots. Drizzling some of the delicious garlic butter sauce from the slow cooker over everything adds extra flavor and richness. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice, pasta, or even crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce.

For a colorful presentation, consider garnishing the dish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. This combination will surely make your dinner table look inviting.

How to store Garlic Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers or are preparing ahead of time, storing Garlic Butter Chicken is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. When frozen, Garlic Butter Chicken can last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to make Garlic Butter Chicken

For the best results when making Garlic Butter Chicken, consider the following tips:

Make sure to cut the potatoes and carrots into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Feel free to adjust the garlic to suit your taste; for garlic lovers, more minced garlic can add even more flavor.
Substitute or add other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini for a twist in flavor and texture.
Use homemade chicken broth for an extra flavor boost if you have it on hand.
Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Variation

Garlic Butter Chicken is an adaptable recipe, allowing for various twists to suit your preferences. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream about 30 minutes before serving. For a complete meal, you could also add rice to the slow cooker. Just add it during the last hour of cooking with additional chicken broth to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Per serving of Garlic Butter Chicken, you can expect approximately the following nutritional values:

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g

These values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. It’s a fulfilling meal that offers a mix of protein and nutritious vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

2. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this recipe in a Dutch oven or a covered bakeware dish in the oven. Cook at 350°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

3. Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. Just toss everything into the slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.

In conclusion, Garlic Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that blends ease and flavor in a wholesome manner. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, it’s perfect for busy families and anyone looking for comfort food that doesn’t require too much effort. Whether you are enjoying it on a weekly rotation or serving it on special occasions, Garlic Butter Chicken is sure to be a favorite in your recipe collection.