Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Are you a busy young professional always on the go? If so, the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is about to become your new kitchen hero! This easy, one-pan meal is designed with your hectic schedule in mind. It offers a delicious, comforting dinner without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Who has the time to clean up a kitchen after a long day at work?
With just a handful of ingredients, including juicy chicken, buttery potatoes, and aromatic garlic, you can whip up a hearty meal in under an hour. According to the USDA, home-cooked meals not only tend to be healthier but also save money compared to dining out! Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies for that added nutritional punch.
Busy lifestyle? No problem! This dish checks all the boxes: simple prep, minimal cleanup, and a delightful flavor combination. You’ll even find you can bring in variations—mix in broccoli or sprinkle some Parmesan on top for a twist. If you’re craving comfort food that fits into your busy routine, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet.
Why is the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet a Game Changer for Busy Young Professionals?
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience in the kitchen is vital. The Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is particularly appealing for several reasons:
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less time spent cleaning up after dinner.
- Quick Cooking: In just 55 minutes, you can prepare a satisfying meal without compromising on flavor.
- Customizable and Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences, making it ideal for family meals or last-minute dinner parties.
So why not give it a try? Your future self will thank you!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Essential ingredients for the perfect skillet meal
To whip up this delightful Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet, you'll need:
- 1 ½ Tablespoon Olive Oil: For sautéing; feel free to use your favorite variety!
- 1 pound Baby Potatoes: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- ¼ Cup Water: Helps tenderize the potatoes.
- 4 Tablespoons Vegan Butter: Provides that creamy, rich flavor (you can substitute for regular butter if you prefer).
- 1 ½ - 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces—this is the star of the dish!
- 6 cloves Garlic: Minced for a truly aromatic experience.
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A lovely blend of herbs that complements the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Season to taste.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a burst of freshness.
Optional ingredients for customization
While the above ingredients create a fantastic meal, you can easily customize your skillet for even more flavor! Consider these additions:
- More Vegetables: Toss in some broccoli or green beans for a colorful, nutritious boost.
- Heat it Up: A dash of red pepper flakes can add a kick if you're a fan of spice.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle in some Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor that complements the buttery sauce beautifully.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Cooking can often feel overwhelming, especially after a long day at work. But what if I told you that you could whip up an incredibly flavorful meal in just one skillet? This Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet recipe is straightforward and will delight your taste buds while keeping cleanup to a minimum. Let’s dive into the steps together!
Gather Your Cooking Tools and Ingredients
Start by making sure you have everything ready before you begin cooking. This makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A 12-inch skillet (essential for even cooking)
- Cutting board and knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Now for the ingredients! Here’s a quick list for your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet:
- 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 pound of baby potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup of water
- 4 tablespoons of vegan butter
- 1 ½ - 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt (divided)
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
Cooking the Potatoes to Perfection
Now, let’s get those potatoes cooking! Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes along with ½ teaspoon of salt, letting them cook for about 5 minutes until they start to brown. Don't rush this step; browning adds flavor!
Once they are browning, add the ¼ cup of water and cover the skillet. This will help steam the potatoes until they are fork-tender—usually around 5 to 10 minutes will do the trick.
Searing the Chicken with Garlic and Seasonings
Once the potatoes are tender, transfer them to a bowl and cover to keep warm. In the same skillet, add in the vegan butter and increase the heat to medium. When the butter has melted, toss in the chicken pieces, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and the remaining salt and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
Bringing It All Together
After the chicken is cooked through, add the potatoes back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir to incorporate the flavors, allowing it to warm through for an extra 1-2 minutes. This ensures every bite melds the delicious garlic butter goodness.
Final Touches and Plating
Finally, stir in the fresh parsley for a lovely burst of color and flavor. Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet immediately for the best taste! Consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra savory kick.
Enjoy this one-pan meal that’s effortless yet exquisite, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! Your taste buds—and family—will thank you. Don't forget to share your experiences or any variations you try!
Variations on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Add more vegetables for a hearty dish
For a more colorful and nutritious take on the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet, consider tossing in an array of your favorite vegetables! Think vibrant bell peppers, nutrient-packed spinach, or crunchy snap peas. This not only enhances the dish's flavor profile but also boosts its health benefits. You’ll love the added texture and freshness they bring!
Spice it up for an extra kick
If you crave more heat, you can take your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet to the next level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You might even experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, to create a unique flavor that excites your palate. Who doesn’t love a little zing in their meals?
Cooking notes for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Tips for ensuring tender chicken
To enjoy juicy, tender chicken in your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet, it's essential to avoid overcooking. Cut the chicken breasts into uniform pieces to promote even cooking. Use a meat thermometer (cooked to 165°F) to achieve perfect results every time. Additionally, marinating the chicken in a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 15–30 minutes can enhance both flavor and tenderness.
Suggestions for the best cooking techniques
When cooking this delightful one-pan meal, opt for medium heat to ensure the chicken develops a nice golden crust without burning. For crispy potatoes, press down on them gently when they first go into the skillet and allow them to brown before reducing the heat to steam them. Lastly, allowing everything to mingle in the skillet for a minute after adding the potatoes back creates a delicious fusion of flavors. Want more tips? Check out The Kitchn’s guide on perfect pan-searing techniques!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
What to serve alongside this skillet meal
Transform your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet into a complete meal by adding a simple side. Fresh, steamed broccoli or crisp green beans make excellent choices, balancing out the richness of the dish. A light mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette can also refresh your palette. For extra heartiness, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or a side of quinoa.
Creative presentation ideas
Make your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet visually appealing by garnishing it with finely chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve the dish in individual bowls or over a colorful bed of arugula to elevate the dining experience. Adding lemon wedges on the side not only looks great but allows guests to personalize their flavor, adding a bright touch to every bite!
Time details for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Preparation time
Getting ready for your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is quick and easy! You'll want to set aside about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and cut those fresh potatoes and chicken.
Cooking time
The magic happens in the kitchen over approximately 35 minutes. This includes cooking the potatoes until they’re golden and tender, and sautéing the garlic chicken until it's perfectly juicy.
Total time
In just 55 minutes, you can achieve a delightful one-pan meal that’s not only delicious but also brings the family together at the dinner table. What’s better than a hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour?
Whether you’re a weekday warrior or figuring out weekend meals, this recipe is a lifesaver. For a closer look at this dish, you can explore more about sautéing techniques and efficient kitchen prep through these insightful cooking tips. Give it a try and watch your loved ones savor every bite!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Calories
This delightful Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet packs a flavorful punch at about 355 calories per serving. It’s a satisfying meal without skimping on taste!
Protein
With approximately 27g of protein, this dish is excellent for fueling your day, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full longer.
Sodium
Keep an eye on your sodium intake with around 823mg in this recipe. To lower it, consider cutting back on added salt or using low-sodium soy sauce in the mix.
For more nutritional insights, you can check Healthline or NutritionData for additional resources. This serving information makes it easier to fit this tasty dish into your meal planning!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
What are some common substitutions for this recipe?
If you're looking to adapt the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet, there are plenty of easy substitutions. For a dairy-free option, swap vegan butter for regular butter in the same quantity. Want to throw in more veggies? Broccoli or green beans would add great texture and flavor! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. To elevate the dish further, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can do wonders.
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Absolutely! You can chop the chicken and potatoes a day ahead of time, making it super convenient for busy weeknights. You could even cook the whole dish and reheat it later. However, freshly made always tastes best!
How do I store leftovers properly?
To keep your Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet tasty for later, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, just reheat to at least 165°F for a deliciously satisfying meal. For more tips on food storage, check out sources like USDA Food Safety.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
In summary, the Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that’s both quick and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Pair it with your favorite veggies or a crisp side salad for a complete gluten-free dinner everyone will adore! Enjoy!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Potato Skillet
Equipment
- 12-inch skillet
Ingredients
Oils
- 1.5 Tablespoon Olive Oil
Vegetables
- 1 pound Baby Potatoes cut into bite size pieces
- ¼ Cup Water
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley finely chopped
Fats
- 4 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
Proteins
- 1.5-2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
- 6 cloves Garlic minced
Spices
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt divided
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Add oil to a skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add in the potatoes and ½ teaspoon of salt. Allow the potatoes to cook for about 5 minutes until potatoes begin to brown.
- Add the water to the pan and cover. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook for 5-10 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender. Then remove the potatoes from the pan to a separate bowl and tent with foil.
- Add the butter to the pan and increase the heat to medium.
- Once the butter has melted, add in the chicken pieces, garlic and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle the remaining salt and the black pepper over the chicken. Cook for about 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining.
- Add the potatoes back into the pan and stir together. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
- Stir in the parsley.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
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