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Best Crispy Herb Butter Chicken Recipe for Spring Dinner

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This crispy herb butter chicken features a shatteringly crisp skin and juicy meat, all infused with a flavorful compound butter. It’s a simple yet impressive spring dinner that comes together in about 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts (about 6 ounces/170g each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mash together with a fork until evenly distributed. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers.
  4. Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and releases easily.
  5. Flip and add the butter: Flip the chicken carefully with tongs. Reduce heat to medium. Divide the herb butter evenly among the chicken breasts, placing a pat on each one. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, basting occasionally with the melted butter. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
  6. Make the pan sauce: Remove the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Pour off most of the fat from the pan, leaving about a tablespoon. Place the pan back over medium heat and add the chicken broth. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Serve: Pour the pan sauce over the chicken and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry thoroughly for crispy skin. Let the herb butter come to room temperature before using. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Baste the chicken frequently after adding the butter. If cooking in batches, keep the first batch warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy herb butter chicken, spring dinner, chicken recipe, herb butter, cast iron skillet, easy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/best-crispy-herb-butter-chicken-recipe-for-spring-dinner/