Introduction
Welcome to a flavorful journey that brings together the goodness of garlic, the richness of butter, and the wholesome crunch of Brussels sprouts! This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels is not just a dish; it’s an experience packed with mouthwatering flavors and delightful textures. Perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests, this recipe is all about simplicity without sacrificing taste.
Imagine juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce that lends a hint of richness, while the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully for that satisfying crunch. Each bite offers a harmony of savory notes and vibrant greens, making it a well-rounded meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this skillet dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking – your taste buds are in for a treat!
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: Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
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- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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- Cook the Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if needed, and arrange them cut-side down. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
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- Add Garlic and Butter: Reduce the heat to medium-low and push the Brussels sprouts to the side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the center of the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
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- Combine & Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the skillet, laying it on top of the Brussels sprouts and garlic. Squeeze the lemon juice over everything. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
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- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Plate the chicken alongside the crispy Brussels sprouts and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (for juice and zest)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Baking Process
For a delicious and hearty Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels, follow these steps to ensure everything is cooked to perfection:
Ingredients
(Refer to your main recipe for exact quantities of chicken, Brussels sprouts, garlic, butter, and any additional spices or herbs.)
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Before you start cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that everything bakes evenly and crisps up nicely.
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Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
- Cut them in half to promote even cooking and crispiness.
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Season the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated to achieve a nice crisp when roasted.
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Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Season the chicken pieces (breast or thighs) with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan.
- Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step gives the chicken a mouthwatering crust and enhances the overall flavor.
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Add Garlic and Butter:
- Once the chicken is browned, add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken, cooking just until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Move the chicken to one side of the skillet and add the Brussels sprouts to the pan, cut-side down, arranging them around the chicken.
- Dot the mixture with the remaining butter for extra richness.
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Bake the Skillet:
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), while the Brussels sprouts will become tender and crispy.
- If you want an extra crispy finish, you can switch on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
This baking process not only elevates the flavors of both the chicken and Brussels sprouts but also simplifies cleanup with just one skillet to wash. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels!
Serving Suggestions
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Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the garlic butter chicken and crispy Brussels sprouts over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. The grains will soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor.
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With Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting touch, pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery chicken pairs wonderfully with the smooth texture of the potatoes.
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In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the chicken and Brussels sprouts in large lettuce leaves. Drizzle with additional garlic butter and top with avocado slices for a fresh, low-carb meal.
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With Crusty Bread: A side of crusty artisanal bread is perfect for sopping up the savory garlic butter sauce. This also adds a rustic touch to your dinner table.
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Side Salad: Complement the dish with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the chicken and Brussels.
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Pasta: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a quick and easy pasta dish. The noodles will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
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Wine Pairing: For the adults, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will enhance the buttery flavors without overpowering the dish.
Enjoy your meal with these delightful serving suggestions, and feel free to get creative with your own pairings!
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Crispy Brussels is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The succulent chicken, infused with the rich taste of garlic and butter, pairs beautifully with the crunchy, caramelized Brussels sprouts, making for a balanced meal that’s sure to impress.
Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or an effortless dinner party option. The combination of protein and veggies means you’ll feel nourished and energized without spending hours in the kitchen.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seasonings or swapping in other vegetables for an even more personalized touch. Whether you serve it on its own or over a bed of rice or quinoa, this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is bound to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the sizzling sounds as you create this mouthwatering dish!
