Ruth Chris Chicken Recipe
Apricot BBQ sauce blends the sweetness of apricots with smoky, tangy notes for a unique twist on traditional barbecue sauce. Ideal for grilled meats like chicken and pork, it provides a flavorful balance of sweetness and spice. Easy to make, this sauce enhances dishes with its vibrant, fruity profile.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or cast-iron pan
- 1 small mixing bowl for seasoning
- Knife and cutting board
- Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)
- Tongs or spatula for flipping the chicken
- Basting spoon (for butter)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Herb Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional for a bit of tang
Instructions
1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I recommend using freshly ground pepper for the best flavor. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly on both sides.
2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts into the pan.
- Sear the chicken for about 25-30 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast.
3: Prepare the Herb Butter
- While the chicken is cooking, make the herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix until well combined and smooth.
4: Baste the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium and spoon the prepared herb butter over the chicken breasts. Let the butter melt and coat the chicken evenly.
- Use a spoon to baste the chicken with the melted butter as it cooks for another 10-15 minutes. This step ensures the chicken becomes extra flavorful and juicy.
5: Serve
- Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and coated with the herb butter, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing and serving. For a luxurious touch, drizzle any remaining herb butter from the pan over the chicken before serving.
Notes
1. Chicken Breasts: You can also use skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer a crispier texture. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will increase slightly.
2. Herb Butter: The herb butter can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It can also be frozen in small portions for later use.
3. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.