Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
When it comes to weeknight dinners, few things can beat the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Garlic butter chicken and potato skillet is a prime example of why homemade meals truly shine. Not only do you get to control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and wholesome, but you also have the opportunity to infuse your personal touch into every bite.
Why homemade meals are better than takeout?
Homemade dishes are often healthier than their takeout counterparts. You can swap out heavy sauces and additives for lighter fare, like herbs and spices, which elevate the flavor without the extra calories. Plus, cooking at home can save you money—imagine whipping up this delicious skillet meal for a fraction of what you'd pay for takeout!
And let’s not forget the joy of cooking. It’s a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. The sizzle of the garlic, the comforting aroma of rosemary, and the satisfying crunch of golden-brown potatoes come together to create an unforgettable sensory experience. So grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe! You’re going to love it!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Essential ingredients for a flavorful dish
To create a delicious garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, you need a handful of essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- Small gold potatoes (1 ½ pounds): Their creamy texture is perfect for this dish.
- Ghee (4 tablespoons): This adds a rich, buttery flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): A must-have for that unmistakable aroma.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme): Both lend depth and freshness to the dish.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds): Tender and juicy, these are ideal for skillet cooking.
- Sea salt and black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Optional additions to enhance the recipe
To elevate your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, consider these optional ingredients:
- Vegetables: Throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color.
- Lemon juice: A splash at the end can brighten the dish beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness that perfectly complements the garlic.
By mixing and matching these ingredients, you’ll create a garlic butter chicken and potato skillet that's uniquely your own! For recipes using similar ingredients, check out sites like Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Cooking should be fun and rewarding, right? This garlic butter chicken and potato skillet recipe is just that! It's a dish packed with flavor that's perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the preparation steps.
Prep the potatoes
First things first—prepare those small gold potatoes! Start by quartering them into bite-sized pieces (around ½ inch thick) so they cook evenly. To give them a jump-start, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl. Add about ¼ cup of water, cover it (a microwave cover or plate works well), and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes until they are barely fork-tender. This technique reduces stovetop cooking time significantly and promises a softer potato!
Cook the potatoes to golden perfection
Next, heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's nice and hot, toss in 2 tablespoons of ghee. The ghee not only adds a lovely buttery flavor but also has a higher smoke point than regular butter, making it a great choice for sautéing. Add your prepped potatoes to the skillet, ensuring they're evenly distributed. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Let them cook for about 2 minutes without stirring, then give them a gentle stir. Continue cooking for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are beautifully golden brown and tender all the way through.
Sauté garlic and herbs with the potatoes
During the last minute of cooking, it's time to awaken those flavors! Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme to the other side. Sauté them briefly until fragrant—this will take about a minute. The aroma is heavenly and will make your kitchen feel inviting. Once everything is well-combined and aromatic, transfer the potatoes, garlic, and herbs to a bowl and set aside.
Add chicken and cook until tender
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of ghee (because who doesn’t love more buttery goodness?). Now it's time for the chicken thighs. Cut them into 1-inch pieces for quick cooking. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until they're tender and no longer pink in the center. Typically, this will take about 5-7 minutes. The ghee will keep the chicken moist and juicy while imbuing it with that rich flavor.
Combine everything and let flavors meld
At last, return the sautéed potatoes, garlic, and herbs to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Gently stir everything together over medium heat for an additional couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
And there you have it! A fast, flavorful garlic butter chicken and potato skillet that's sure to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken
Add a kick to your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet by incorporating some heat! Toss in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños while sautéing the chicken. For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in a blend of ghee, garlic, and cayenne for about 30 minutes before cooking. This spicy twist complements the buttery richness and makes for an unforgettable meal.
Herb-Infused Skillet with Seasonal Vegetables
Elevate your skillet dish by mixing in seasonal vegetables! As you prepare the garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, consider adding asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. The result? An aromatic and colorful dish packed with nutrients and flavor, perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to visit sites like EatingWell for more veggie-packed inspiration!
Cooking Notes for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors
To create a delicious garlic butter chicken and potato skillet, make sure to chop your herbs finely—this helps release their oils and enhances the flavor. The mixture of rosemary, thyme, and parsley adds layers of freshness that elevate the dish. Also, don't shy away from seasoning! A generous pinch of sea salt and black pepper can transform your skillet into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Tips for avoiding dry chicken
To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender, consider marinating it in a bit of the garlic and herb mixture before cooking. This not only adds flavor but also helps maintain moisture. Plus, cutting the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces ensures even cooking. Always cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dryness. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
What to Pair with the Dish?
For a delightful meal, consider pairing your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet with a refreshing side salad. A light arugula or spinach salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette will balance the rich flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts make excellent companions and round out the nutritional profile of your dinner.
Creative Plating Ideas
To elevate your serving presentation, serve the garlic butter chicken and potato skillet on a large platter. Neatly arrange the golden-brown potatoes first, then top them with the succulent chicken pieces. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sea salt for an eye-catching finish. A drizzle of lemon juice or balsamic reduction adds a tangy contrast that’s not only appetizing but also visually appealing. Consider using an attractive serving dish or colorful bowls to enhance the overall dining experience.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Preparation time
In just 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to go! Start by quartering your potatoes and mincing the garlic and herbs.
Cooking time
The cooking process takes about 20 minutes. This includes browning the potatoes and cooking the chicken to perfection.
Total time
All together, you're looking at a quick and delicious meal ready in 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence.
Ready to whip up your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
When preparing the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet, you can enjoy a hearty meal with great nutritional benefits. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 316 kcal
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
This balance provides a satisfying dish that fuels your day while keeping your health goals in check. If you're keen to delve deeper into nutritional content, you can explore USDA FoodData Central for more details on each ingredient's benefits.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet ahead of time can save you time during busy evenings. You can pre-cook the potatoes and chicken, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat everything in the skillet until warmed through. For a fresh touch, add a dash of lemon juice before serving!
What variations fit a budget?
Staying within budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor! Feel free to swap out the gold potatoes for more cost-effective options like russet potatoes. You can also use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer. Seasoning can really elevate your dish, so consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne for a punch without breaking the bank. Check out Budget Bytes for budget-friendly ingredient swaps!
How to handle leftovers?
Leftovers from your garlic butter chicken and potato skillet can be a lifesaver! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick warm-up in the skillet can help retain that delicious garlic butter flavor. Mix in some fresh herbs for a flavor boost!
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
In wrapping up this delightful garlic butter chicken and potato skillet recipe, you’ll find it’s not just a meal; it's an experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and fragrant herbs. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness!
For more culinary inspiration, don't forget to explore Cooking Light and Bon Appétit for innovative recipes. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Equipment
- microwave
- Large Heavy Skillet
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds small gold potatoes quartered (about ½” thick)
- 4 tablespoons ghee divided
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons parsley minced, plus more for garnish
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1” pieces
- sea salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- To soften the potatoes before cooking on the stovetop, place them in a microwave safe bowl with about ¼ cup of water and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes or until barely fork tender.
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium high heat and add 2 tablespoons of the ghee. Once hot, add the potatoes and sprinkle all over with sea salt and pepper. Cook about 2 minutes, stir, then cook another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to evenly brown, until golden brown and tender.
- During the last minute of cooking the potatoes, push them to the side and add the garlic, rosemary, thyme and parsley. Stir in with the potatoes and cook until potatoes are done. Once done, remove the potatoes, garlic and herbs to a bowl and set aside.
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