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Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce - Recipes From Chef

Imagine this: it's a busy weeknight, and you want something delicious on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce is your answer. With tender chicken fillets seared to perfection, drenched in a flavorful garlic herb sauce, this dish fits the bill for a quick yet elegant meal.
This recipe not only satisfies hunger, but it also brings comfort and a hint of gourmet flair, all from your own skillet. Lucky for you, I'm here to share my personal take on this dish, complete with my insights and experiences from countless kitchen trials.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets 6 oz each
  • Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly minced garlic about 4 cloves
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth or a splash of dry white wine
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a gentle kick
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary chopped

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important. A dry surface will help achieve that golden-brown crust we all love. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
  1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, it’s time for the chicken!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
  1. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on one side. You want a lovely golden crust to develop.
Step 4: Flip and Cook Through
  1. After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F). Take the chicken out of the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! You can indeed smell it, so pay attention.
    Next, deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth or white wine, scraping up all those brown bits. They hold tons of flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Butter and Herbs
  1. Reduce the heat to low. Add in 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted. Mix in the lemon zest, red pepper flakes, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for an additional minute to let those flavors meld.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with the Sauce
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Allow it to warm for another minute, letting those flavors soak in.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Plate the chicken. Drizzle generously with the garlic herb butter sauce and serve immediately. Pair with your chosen sides for an end result that's sure to impress.

Notes

  • Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible. The quality makes a noticeable difference in taste.
  • Don’t Rush the Sealing: Allow the chicken enough time on each side for good searing. This step locks in moisture.
  • Customize the Herbs: Feel free to play around with different herbs—basil, oregano, or even parsley can work well.
  • Control the Heat: If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce your heat. Burnt garlic is unpleasant in flavor.
  • Double the Sauce: If you love a lot of sauce (who doesn't?), consider doubling the garlic herb butter sauce for extra flavor.