Introduction
Welcome to the quick and flavorful world of the Minute Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet! If you’re a busy home cook who craves delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. Imagine succulent chicken breasts bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all topped off with a gooey layer of melted cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner, an elegant yet effortless meal for guests, or even a cozy night in, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of aromatic garlic, creamy butter, and melty cheese creates an irresistible sauce that clings to each tender bite of chicken. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your creation.
Join me as we dive into this quick and satisfying recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite, proving that delicious meals can indeed be made in a flash!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for decoration)
Instructions
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- In a sizable skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for around 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
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- Incorporate the chicken pieces into the skillet, adding salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden and is cooked thoroughly.
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- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes for slight reduction.
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- Lower the heat to a simmer and mix in the heavy cream, ensuring everything is well blended.
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- Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce takes on a creamy consistency.
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- Taste and modify the seasoning as needed. Allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to thicken up, then remove from heat.
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- Before serving warm with rice or pasta, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, for a rich flavor
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for that aromatic kick
- Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon for added herbaceous flavor
- Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a pop of color
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and lemon juice for brightness
These ingredients come together for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
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Prepare the Chicken: Take boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and season them generously with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices. For an extra layer of flavor, you can even marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for about 30 minutes before cooking.
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Sear the Chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter and a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Sear each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and gives your chicken a delicious crust.
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Add Garlic Butter: Once the chicken is seared, reduce the heat to medium, and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt, mixing the garlic and butter to create a luscious sauce.
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Incorporate Cheese: After the garlic butter is ready, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar) over the chicken in the skillet. Make sure to cover the chicken pieces well for that melty, cheesy goodness.
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Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
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Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven carefully. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your deliciously cheesy and garlicky chicken skillet!
Serving Suggestions
This Minute Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your meal:
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Serve with Rice or Quinoa: Pair this dish with a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains will soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce, making every bite even more delightful.
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Complement with Fresh Vegetables: Roast or steam some seasonal vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus to serve on the side. Their crispness balances the richness of the skillet dish.
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Add a Fresh Salad: A light green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette is a great way to add freshness and crunch. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.
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Serve with Crusty Bread: Crusty artisan bread or a baguette is perfect for scooping up the cheesy garlic sauce. Toast it lightly for extra flavor.
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Create a Wrap or Sandwich: Use leftover chicken to make a delectable wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of dressing or sauce. Alternatively, turn it into a hearty sandwich with some fresh herbs.
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish’s flavors.
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Pair with Wine: Complement your meal with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which can elevate the flavors and make for a delightful dining experience.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect meal! Enjoy!
Conclusion
In just a matter of minutes, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet delivers a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your own home. The tender chicken, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and creamy melted cheese, is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe checks all the boxes for taste, ease, and satisfaction. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Don’t forget to serve it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up all that delectable garlic butter sauce. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
