Easy Garlic Chicken
Easy Garlic Chicken Recipe - Quick & Flavorful Dinner Option
Introduction
Easy Garlic Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The combination of garlic, seasoning salt, and onion powder gives the chicken a flavorful and aromatic taste that is sure to please your taste buds.
History
The origins of Easy Garlic Chicken are not well-documented, but it is likely that this recipe has been passed down through generations of home cooks looking for a quick and tasty way to prepare chicken.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp of butter
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 2 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of seasoning salt
- 1 tsp of onion powder
How to prepare
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, seasoning salt, and onion powder.
- Sauté for about 10 to 15 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Variations
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Substitute the butter with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
- Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use skinless, boneless chicken breast halves for this recipe to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder, seasoning salt, and onion powder to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Be sure to sauté the chicken in butter over medium-high heat to ensure that it cooks through and develops a nice golden brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Easy Garlic Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the chicken in butter over medium-high heat ensures that it cooks through evenly and develops a nice golden brown crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have garlic powder, seasoning salt, or onion powder on hand, you can substitute with fresh garlic, salt, and diced onions for a similar flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in the garlic powder, seasoning salt, and onion powder mixture ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop. Simply store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish Easy Garlic Chicken with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Easy Garlic Chicken with a side of roasted potatoes or a serving of creamy mashed cauliflower for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Easy Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Easy Garlic Chicken contains approximately 300 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a main dish.
Carbohydrates
This recipe contains minimal carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Fats
The butter used in this recipe adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, but also contributes to the overall fat content. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your fat intake.
Proteins
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, making this dish a satisfying and filling option for a meal.
Vitamins and minerals
Garlic is known for its health benefits, including being a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. Chicken also contains essential nutrients such as niacin, selenium, and phosphorus.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and poultry (chicken), so be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Easy Garlic Chicken is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It is a satisfying and flavorful option for a meal.
Summary
Easy Garlic Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Easy Garlic Chicken. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a formidable woman, with a sharp wit and a no-nonsense approach to life. She had learned to cook out of necessity, having grown up during the Great Depression when money was tight and resources were scarce.
One day, as I sat at her kitchen table watching her deftly chop vegetables and season a whole chicken, she turned to me and said, "You want to learn how to make something really special? This recipe has been passed down in our family for generations. It's simple, but the flavors are so rich and satisfying. You'll love it."
Intrigued, I leaned in closer as she began to explain the ingredients and steps involved in making Easy Garlic Chicken. As she spoke, I could see the passion and pride in her eyes, knowing that she was passing down a piece of our family history to me.
The recipe itself was surprisingly simple. All it required was a whole chicken, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few other basic ingredients. The key, my grandmother explained, was to marinate the chicken in the garlic and olive oil mixture for several hours before roasting it in the oven. This would infuse the meat with flavor and keep it moist and tender.
As I watched her prepare the dish, I noticed how effortlessly she moved around the kitchen, her hands moving with precision and grace. She had a way of cooking that was both practical and artistic, a skill that only comes with years of practice and experience.
When the chicken was finally done and she placed it on the table, the aroma that filled the room was intoxicating. The garlic and herbs had infused the meat with a rich, savory flavor that made my mouth water.
As we sat down to eat, my grandmother watched me closely, waiting for my reaction. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The chicken was tender and juicy, with a subtle hint of garlic that lingered on my tongue.
"Delicious, isn't it?" my grandmother asked, a hint of pride in her voice.
I nodded, unable to speak as I savored every bite. This recipe, passed down through generations, was a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients cooked with love and care.
From that day on, Easy Garlic Chicken became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or just when I needed a comforting meal to lift my spirits.
Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and loved ones, each time telling them the story of how I learned to make it from my own grandmother. It has become more than just a dish; it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and tradition that has shaped me into the cook I am today.
As I pass on this recipe to you now, dear reader, I hope you will enjoy making Easy Garlic Chicken as much as I have. May it bring you comfort, joy, and a taste of the rich history that has been woven into its simple yet satisfying flavors. Bon appétit!