Introduction
Welcome to another delightful culinary adventure! Today, we’re bringing together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender chicken, all while complementing it with the crispy goodness of Brussels sprouts. This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels is a perfect weekday dinner that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The succulent chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection in a decadent garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with savory richness. Meanwhile, the Brussels sprouts—when roasted just right—transform into crispy little nuggets, adding a delightful texture and earthy flavor that balances the dish beautifully.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the kitchen and create a meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor! Prepare your taste buds for a truly mouthwatering experience!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika, making sure they are fully coated.
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- Heat the Skillet: In a roomy skillet set over medium-high heat, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a golden brown color and are thoroughly cooked. Once done, transfer them from the skillet and set aside.
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- Cook the Brussels Sprouts: Using the same skillet, toss in the halved Brussels sprouts. If necessary, drizzle with a bit more olive oil and place them cut-side down. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy, stirring occasionally for even browning.
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- Add Garlic and Butter: Lower the heat to medium-low and push the Brussels sprouts to one side of the skillet. Introduce the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the center of the skillet. Stir and cook for roughly 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes aromatic, being careful not to let it burn.
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- Combine & Finish Cooking: Place the chicken back into the skillet, positioning it atop the Brussels sprouts and garlic. Drizzle lemon juice over the dish. Cover the skillet and allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
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- Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Plate the chicken alongside the crispy Brussels sprouts and ladle the garlic butter sauce over the top.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound, trimmed and halved for optimal crispiness.
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced to infuse flavor throughout the dish.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted for a rich and delicious sauce.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used for cooking and enhancing the flavors.
- Salt: To taste, preferably kosher or sea salt for seasoning.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to add depth to the seasoning.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, for a touch of aromatic herbs.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, for brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for an optional topping that adds flavor richness.
This vibrant collection of ingredients will create a delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with perfectly crispy Brussels sprouts, elevating your weeknight dinner!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken and Brussels sprouts roast evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown color.
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Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: While the oven is heating, rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim the stems and cut them in half lengthwise. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which will help them crisp up in the oven.
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Season the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated. You can also add some minced garlic or red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
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Arrange the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat some butter over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (like paprika or Italian seasoning). Sear the chicken in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
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Combine and Bake: Once the chicken is seared, nestle the seasoned Brussels sprouts around the chicken in the skillet. Drizzle more melted butter or olive oil over the entire dish for added richness and flavor.
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the Brussels sprouts are tender and crispy.
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Finishing Touches: If you want extra crispy Brussels sprouts, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking process. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Side Dish Pairing: Serve the skillet dish alongside a light, refreshing salad, such as a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula complements the richness of the garlic butter, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Grain Base: For a heartier meal, spoon the garlic butter chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa, rice, or couscous. The grains will soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, adding extra flavor to each bite.
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Crusty Bread: Pair your dish with slices of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce on your plate.
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Wine Pairing: Enjoy your meal with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. These wines enhance the flavors of the garlic and butter while providing a refreshing contrast.
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Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, over the dish just before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also bring a fresh note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
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Vegetable Options: In addition to crispy Brussels sprouts, consider serving the meal with extra roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition and vibrant color.
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Cheesy Finish: For cheese lovers, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top right before serving adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter.
With these serving suggestions, your Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels will become an irresistible and well-rounded meal that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. The succulent chicken, infused with fragrant garlic and rich butter, pairs beautifully with the crispy Brussels sprouts, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Embrace the simplicity of one-pan cooking while reveling in the vibrant tastes that this recipe brings to your table. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that luscious garlic butter sauce over your sides for an extra layer of flavor! Enjoy this wholesome, hearty dish that combines both nutrition and indulgence in each comforting serving. Happy cooking!
