Name: Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 23 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1½ tbsp garlic; 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and freshly ground black pepper; ⅓ cup low sodium chicken stock; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp fresh sage; 1 tsp freshy thyme; 1 tsp fresh rosemary

When you're in the mood for a hearty, comforting dinner, this Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce is the perfect dish. With flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and a rich buttery sauce, it's a meal that's sure to impress. The chicken is cooked to perfection in the skillet, absorbing all the aromatic flavors from the sauce.

Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

Photos of Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

This recipe requires some fresh herbs such as sage, thyme, and rosemary, which might not be readily available in every home kitchen. These herbs add a unique flavor that elevates the dish. If you're heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick these up from the fresh produce or spice section. Also, the recipe calls for low sodium chicken stock, which is a healthier alternative to regular chicken stock and is usually located in the soup aisle.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Chicken breasts: The star ingredient, boneless and skinless chicken breasts are used for their lean and tender properties.

Garlic: Adds a distinctive, robust flavor.

Olive oil: Helps cook the chicken and adds a hint of its own flavor.

Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the overall taste.

Chicken stock: Adds volume to the sauce and tenderizes the chicken.

Butter: Gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture and flavor.

Sage: This herb adds a warm, mild flavor to the dish.

Thyme: Its sweet, earthy flavor compliments the chicken.

Rosemary: Known for its strong aroma and flavor, it balances the richness of the dish.

One reader, Kata Reedy says:

This skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce recipe is a game-changer! The chicken is tender and juicy, and the sauce is bursting with flavor. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I highly recommend trying it out!

Kata Reedy

Techniques Required for Making Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

How to pound chicken: Pound the thicker parts of the chicken with the flat side of a meat mallet to even out their thickness, ensuring even cooking.

How to sauté garlic and sage: Sauté the garlic and sage in melted butter until the garlic is golden brown, infusing the butter with their flavors.

How to deglaze the pan: After sautéing the garlic and sage, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate their rich flavors into the sauce.

How to spoon sauce over chicken: Spoon the flavorful garlic herb butter sauce over the cooked chicken to ensure it is evenly coated and infused with the delicious flavors.

How To Make Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Toss a tasty dinner in under 30 minutes with this skillet chicken. It comes with garlic butter sauce packed with the flavors of thyme, rosemary, and sage.

Preparation: 8 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 23 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

24ozboneless skinless chicken breasts,(4 chicken breasts)
1½tbspgarlic,(4 cloves), minced
1tbspolive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper
⅓cuplow sodium chicken stock,or dry white wine
4tbspunsalted butter,divided
2tspfresh sage,chopped
1tspfreshy thyme,chopped
1tspfresh rosemary,chopped

Instructions

Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Pound thicker parts of chicken with the flat side of a meat mallet to even their thickness.
Dab chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides of chicken with salt and pepper. Add oil to skillet, then add chicken.
Cook chicken about 5 for 6 minutes per side or until the center registers 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce burner temperature slightly, then melt 1½ tablespoon butter in the same skillet. Add in garlic and sage and saute until garlic is golden brown for about 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Dice remaining butter into 3 pieces, then add to skillet along with thyme and rosemary. Stir until butter is melted.
Return chicken to pan and spoon sauce over top. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 349.95kcal
Fat: 19.69g
Saturated Fat: 8.87g
Trans Fat: 0.48g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.57g
Carbohydrates: 2.60g
Fiber: 0.82g
Sugar: 0.09g
Protein: 39.22g
Cholesterol: 154.70mg
Sodium: 495.81mg
Calcium: 44.99mg
Potassium: 626.76mg
Iron: 1.23mg
Vitamin A: 113.87µg
Vitamin C: 1.78mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

When cooking the chicken, ensure that you use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. This will help you avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan wonders: Opt for one-pan recipes to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.

Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen gadgets can make prep work more efficient and save time in the long run.

Batch cooking: Cook extra portions and freeze them for future meals to save time on busy days.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and utensils.

Use kitchen hacks: Utilize time-saving kitchen hacks such as using pre-cut vegetables or canned beans to cut down on prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

boneless skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts are a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, and they can be used in the same way in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor that can add depth to the dish without the pungency of garlic.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
fresh sage - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil has a similar aromatic and slightly peppery flavor that can complement the dish in place of sage.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute for fresh rosemary, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones.

Presenting Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Elevate the chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts on the plate with precision, ensuring they are positioned elegantly and are the focal point of the dish.
Drizzle the garlic herb butter sauce: Using a spoon, carefully drizzle the rich and aromatic garlic herb butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped sage, thyme, and rosemary to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal.
Arrange complementary side dishes: Place the accompanying side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a vibrant salad, strategically around the chicken to create a visually appealing and balanced plate.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ techniques such as microgreens or edible flowers to add a touch of sophistication and artistry to the presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider adding a crunchy element, such as toasted nuts or crispy kale chips, to provide contrast and elevate the overall dining experience.
Focus on plate composition: Pay attention to the arrangement of elements on the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, shapes, and textures to captivate the diners' senses.
Emphasize attention to detail: Wipe any smudges or drips from the plate, and ensure that the presentation exudes a sense of meticulous care and culinary mastery.

Essential Tools for Making Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Meat mallet: A kitchen tool used to tenderize and flatten meat.
Instant read thermometer: A thermometer used to quickly measure the internal temperature of food.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and flipping foods.
Large 12-inch skillet: A wide, shallow pan with a long handle, used for frying and sautéing foods.
Paper towels: Absorbent towels used for drying food items or wiping surfaces.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Let the skillet chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, store the garlic herb butter sauce separately from the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the sauce, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the sauce cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them for up to 2-3 months. This allows you to thaw only the amount of sauce you need for future meals.

How To Reheat Leftover Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover skillet chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a microwave. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the pan, then add the leftover chicken. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for 3-5 minutes or until it's heated through. This method helps to keep the chicken moist and infuses it with additional flavor.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your reheated chicken, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and crispy on the outside.
To reheat the garlic herb butter sauce, place it in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the sauce occasionally until it's heated through. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin it out. Once the sauce is heated, spoon it over the reheated chicken and serve immediately.

Interesting Fact About Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

The skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It's a great option for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Is Making Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Cost-Effective?

This skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breasts, garlic, and fresh herbs, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a worthwhile investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, taste, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Is This Skillet Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it features lean protein from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are a great source of essential amino acids and low in saturated fat. The recipe also incorporates a variety of fresh herbs, such as sage, thyme, and rosemary, which offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the recipe's main drawback is its high saturated fat content due to the generous use of butter. While butter can be enjoyed in moderation, excessive consumption may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce, or replace some of it with heart-healthy olive oil
Use low-sodium or homemade chicken stock to reduce the overall sodium content
Increase the amount of fresh herbs used to boost the dish's nutritional value and flavor profile
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Opt for whole grain or cauliflower rice instead of white rice or pasta to increase the meal's fiber content and lower its glycemic index

Editor's Opinion on This Skillet Chicken Recipe

This skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh herbs and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic and savory notes, while the buttery sauce adds richness and depth. The cooking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, and the final sauce brings everything together beautifully. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and a hint of butter, perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic herb butter sauce from the skillet chicken.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and citrusy contrast to the savory chicken dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and a touch of butter, providing a delightful balance to the savory flavors of the skillet chicken with garlic herb butter sauce.

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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a perfect start to any meal. The warm, gooey dip is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties and are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crunchy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe:

This skillet chicken recipe is a must-try for any home cook. The combination of tender chicken breasts and aromatic garlic herb butter sauce creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs ensures a rich and authentic taste. The step-by-step instructions guarantee a perfectly cooked chicken with a luscious buttery sauce. With the addition of low-sodium chicken stock, this recipe offers a balanced and wholesome meal. Trust the expertise behind this recipe for a delightful dining experience.

Have you tried this Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe? Let us know how it turned out and share your own tips and variations in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it?

The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it is to use an instant-read thermometer. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it is safe to eat. Be sure to check the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in this recipe?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in this recipe. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones, so you'll want to use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs, you can use 1/3 teaspoon of dried herbs.

Can I substitute the chicken stock with another type of liquid?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken stock with another type of liquid, such as vegetable stock or even white wine. Just keep in mind that using a different liquid may alter the flavor slightly, so choose a substitute that complements the other flavors in the dish.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning when sautéing it in the skillet?

To prevent the garlic from burning when sautéing it in the skillet, make sure the heat is not too high. Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks and stir it frequently to ensure it cooks evenly without burning. You can also add the garlic to the skillet after the butter has melted to reduce the risk of burning.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook than boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.