Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

A delicious and quick meal, Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. This budget-friendly dish features simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. In just 20 minutes, you can serve a satisfying dinner that adheres to Whole30 guidelines. Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding your family, this recipe will impress with its savory taste and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and vegan butter creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, caulirice, or steamed veggies for a nutritious meal that suits any palate.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Whole30 Compliant: Enjoy this dish without guilt as it fits perfectly into your Whole30 lifestyle.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment not only speeds up the process but also ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag
• Large sauté pan
• Cooking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl or reusable zip-top bag: Ideal for marinating chicken and ensuring even coating with seasonings.
• Large sauté pan: Allows for proper browning of the chicken, which contributes to flavor development.
• Cooking spatula: Useful for flipping chicken pieces without damaging them while cooking.

Ingredients

A FAST and easy budget-friendly 20-minute dinner with basic ingredients but full of flavor!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 pieces)
• 5 tablespoons vegan butter (divided, see notes if on Whole30)
• 1/4 cup arrowroot, potato, or cassava flour or starch (see notes for Keto)
• 1 tablespoon Trader Joe’s 21 Seasoning Salute (see notes for alternative)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add cubed chicken to a large bowl or reusable zip-top bag. Add all of the seasonings and flour or starch (if using) to the bowl or bag and stir or toss until well coated.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Add 3 tablespoons ghee to a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer.

Step 3: Cook Until Crispy

Cook chicken until there are brown crispy bits on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Once chicken is mostly browned, add the remaining 2 tablespoons ghee and 2 tablespoons minced garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes or until garlic is lightly browned and fragrant, and chicken is cooked through (no pink inside).

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Do a happy dance that dinner is done ALREADY! If you are in a hurry, pair this with steam-in-a-bag rice or caulirice and green beans that you can steam in your microwave while the chicken is cooking. BOOM, dinner is done!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Freeze leftover chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to please your taste buds and heart. Here are some tasty serving suggestions.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Spinach Salad: Serve over fresh spinach topped with avocado and a light vinaigrette.
• Mixed Greens: Pair with mixed greens for a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors.

With Healthy Starches

• Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option absorbs the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

On a Plate with Vegetables

• Sautéed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and pairs well with garlic butter.
• Zucchini Noodles: These noodles are a great low-carb alternative, soaking up the flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

To ensure your Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve that perfect sear on each piece of chicken.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices and salt based on your flavor preferences.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

When you’re looking for sides that pair well with Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken, consider these options. Each will enhance your meal and keep it wholesome.

1. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness without overpowering the main dish.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned and roasted until crispy, they complement the chicken’s richness nicely.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy yet light option that echoes the garlic flavors in your chicken.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with garlic butter.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious grain salad with veggies provides texture and balance to your meal.
6. Crispy Radishes: Roasted radishes take on a unique flavor that brightens up your plate deliciously.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Overcrowding the pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid placing too many pieces in the pan at once. This can lead to steaming instead of browning, which affects flavor. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Not using enough seasoning: The flavor of Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken comes from the seasonings. Make sure to use the right amount and mix them thoroughly with the chicken for even distribution.

• Skipping the marinating step: For maximum flavor, let the chicken sit in the seasonings for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate and enhances the overall taste.

• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for golden brown on both sides but ensure it’s cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if needed; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Neglecting to check for doneness: Always check if the chicken is fully cooked by cutting into a piece. Make sure there is no pink inside and juices run clear.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Allow chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed throughout.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or simple salads that complement its rich flavors.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken is recommended, you can substitute it with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option that is still compliant with Whole30 guidelines.

How do I customize Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during cooking or adjust seasonings according to taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Whole30 Garlic Butter Chicken is not only quick and budget-friendly but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of room for customization based on your taste preferences. Try adding different herbs or veggies to make it your own!