Chicken with flavored butter

Delicious Recipe for Chicken with Flavorful Butter

I invite you to discover a simple yet flavorful recipe – chicken with flavorful butter. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, delivering a refined taste and a crispy texture. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and by combining it with flavorful butter and crunchy breadcrumbs, we create a dish that is not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 100g flavored butter (you can use herb butter or garlic butter)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 200g, but it's better to have a little extra)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history:
Chicken dishes have been appreciated throughout history for their versatility and flavor. Chicken has become a staple ingredient in many cultures, used in numerous recipes ranging from simple to sophisticated. The combination of chicken with flavorful butter and breadcrumbs evokes traditional meals, where fresh ingredients and enticing aromas come together to create memorable dishes.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breast into evenly thick pieces, about 2 cm thick. It's important to have uniform sizes so that they cook evenly.

2. Preparing the flavored butter: If you don’t have ready-made flavored butter, you can make your own herb butter. Mix softened butter (at room temperature) with fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or rosemary), crushed garlic, and a pinch of salt. Let it rest in the fridge to firm up before use.

3. Coating in breadcrumbs: Take each piece of chicken, roll it in breadcrumbs, and then generously coat it with the flavored butter. Make sure each piece is well covered to achieve a crispy crust when baking. Repeat the process, rolling each piece a second time in breadcrumbs for a double layer of crunch.

4. Refrigerating: Place the chicken pieces on a platter, cover them with plastic wrap, and let them chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the butter to firm up and helps create a crispier texture during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the chicken pieces on it. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy. Halfway through baking, you can flip the pieces to ensure they brown evenly.

6. Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with Hasselback potatoes. These potatoes, sliced thinly but not completely, bake until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside – a perfect combination!

Helpful tips:
- You can add spices to the breadcrumbs, such as paprika or grated Parmesan, to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- If you want to make the recipe even healthier, you can use skinless chicken breast and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
- Instead of flavored butter, you can experiment with flavored olive oil, but the taste will be different.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for turkey or pork.
2. How can I store leftover chicken? Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days, and to reheat it, I recommend placing it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices that complement the flavors of this dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, low in saturated fats. The butter provides healthy fats, and the breadcrumbs can add complex carbohydrates, depending on the type of bread used. This recipe can be part of a balanced diet, especially when served with fresh vegetables.

Possible variations:
- Add grated cheese to the breadcrumbs for a richer and more savory crust.
- You can add lemon or lime slices to the tray to infuse the chicken with a fresh acidity.
- Experiment with other flavors in the flavored butter, such as chili or specific spices, for an extra kick.

In conclusion, this recipe for chicken with flavorful butter is not only simple and quick but also a true feast for the senses. Whether you prepare it for a festive dinner or an ordinary evening, each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process!