Here's a recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken that yields a deliciously flavorful and tender dish:
**Ingredients:**
For the chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper, to taste
For the garlic butter sauce:
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
* 1 teaspoon dried parsley
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**Optional ingredients for variations:**
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for pesto version
* 1-2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese for Italian-inspired version
* 1-2 teaspoons soy sauce for Asian-inspired version
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for Mexican-inspired version
* 2-3 slices of lemon for serving (for a citrusy twist)
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the chicken**
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season the chicken with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides evenly.
**Step 2: Cook the chicken**
1. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
**Step 3: Prepare the garlic butter sauce**
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the lemon juice, white wine (if using), and heavy cream (if using). Stir until combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove the garlic butter sauce from heat and stir in parsley, salt, and pepper.
**Step 4: Serve**
1. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or leave whole, depending on your preference.
2. Serve the chicken with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a more intense garlic flavor, use 3-4 cloves instead of 2.
* Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro to the garlic butter sauce for added depth of flavor.
* Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier sauce.
* For an Asian-inspired version, add 1-2 teaspoons of soy sauce and 1-2 teaspoons of grated ginger to the garlic butter sauce.
* For an Italian-inspired version, add 1-2 teaspoons of grated Parmesan cheese and 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil to the garlic butter sauce.
* For a Mexican-inspired version, add 1-2 teaspoons of cumin and 1-2 teaspoons of chopped fresh cilantro to the garlic butter sauce.
* Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread for a heartier meal.
Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken!
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