Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter

Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter is a delightful dish that brings out the best flavors in simple ingredients. It features juicy, golden chicken breasts cooked to perfection and topped with a rich, aromatic herb butter. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter. First, it’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Second, the combination of crispy chicken and flavorful herb butter creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Finally, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it a great choice for any dinner.

How to Make Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Directions:

1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior!
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 74°C / 165°F).
4. Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 1 Tbsp of butter and the minced garlic to the pan; stir it around and spoon the melting butter over the chicken for about a minute. This will infuse your chicken with delicious flavor!
5. In a small bowl, mix the remaining butter with the chopped parsley, thyme or rosemary, and lemon zest and juice if you’re using them. This herb butter is the star of the dish!
6. Remove the pan from heat and plop a generous dollop of the herb butter on top of each chicken breast.
7. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the butter to melt and meld with the chicken for a delightful flavor experience.
8. Serve the chicken with the pan juices spooned over the top for added flavor.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter

Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter can be served in various ways. It pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

How to Store Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Crispy Chicken with Herb Butter

• Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning. This helps create a crispy crust.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through.
• Feel free to adjust the herbs in the butter to your taste. Basil or dill would also be great choices.
• Don’t skip letting the chicken rest; this helps keep it juicy.

Variation

For a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for some heat. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or chives for unique flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

   • Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicy and flavorful, just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.

2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

   • Dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount recommended for fresh herbs.

3. Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?

   • Yes, you can prepare the herb butter in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before using it on the chicken.