why make this recipe
This dish cooks fast and tastes rich. The garlic butter gives the chicken a warm flavor and the asparagus stays bright and crisp. It is good for a weeknight dinner or a simple meal with friends. You can also try a baked version for a change, like lemon garlic butter chicken with asparagus.
introduction
This recipe uses few ingredients and few steps. You brown chicken in butter, then cook garlic and asparagus in the same pan. The plate is ready in about 30 minutes. If you like small pieces, you might also enjoy garlic butter chicken bites.
how to make Garlic Butter Chicken & Asparagus
Follow the steps below. Work with medium heat and watch the chicken so it cooks through but does not burn.
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions :
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and asparagus, sautéing until the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the asparagus.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
how to serve Garlic Butter Chicken & Asparagus
Serve hot on a plate. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the chicken and asparagus. This goes well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
how to store Garlic Butter Chicken & Asparagus
Cool to room temperature, then put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven until warm. Do not leave out at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make Garlic Butter Chicken & Asparagus
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so it browns well.
- Use room temperature butter so it melts fast.
- Trim woody ends from asparagus for tender bites.
- Cook asparagus until bright green but still a little crisp.
- For a slow cook option, you can try a different method like slow cooker garlic butter chicken and veggies.
variation (if any)
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but watch the cook time.
- Add cherry tomatoes for color and slight sweetness.
- Stir in a splash of chicken broth or white wine in the pan for a light sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Thaw it first. Cook thawed chicken the same way.
Q: Can I use green beans instead of asparagus?
A: Yes. Green beans work well. Cook until tender.
Q: Is the paprika required?
A: No. Paprika adds color and mild flavor. You can skip it.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a butter substitute or olive oil instead of butter.
Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: Cut into the thickest part. Juices should run clear and no pink should remain. A thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
For another one-pan take on this dish, see the full Garlic Butter Chicken and Asparagus Recipe (One-Pan) – The Kitchn.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken & Asparagus
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Quick and flavorful chicken dish featuring garlic butter and crisp asparagus, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and asparagus, sautéing until the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the asparagus.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken, garlic butter, asparagus, quick dinner, one-pan meal