| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 30g | 15g | 3g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 40g | 0.2g |
When I think about the perfect blend of flavors that represents both my Southern and West African heritage, Sage Butter Chicken always comes to mind. This fruit-infused and earthy sage delight brings everything I love about global cuisine to the comfort of home, satisfying the soul as well as the palate. Not only is it rich in taste but its simplicity and versatility ensures a stellar performance on any dinner table.
A Flavor Fusion Journey
This divine Sage Butter Chicken recipe strikes a unique balance between the familiar and the exotic. Its savory yet subtly sweet profile is reminiscent of Nigeria’s popular citrus chicken recipes such as this one, while its delicate infusion of fresh sage teleports you right to the heart of the Deep South.
What’s more, it pairs incredibly well with a range of side dishes. From classic Southern favorites like collard greens or mashed potatoes to staple Nigerian foods such as jollof rice or fried plantains. This versatility allows you to effortlessly craft a fully rounded meal that caters to various culinary preferences and cultures, a true embodiment of Afro-Southern fusion.
Healthful Indulgence
Beyond its unmatched flavor, Sage Butter Chicken also offers a variety of health benefits. Rich in protein, chicken supports muscle growth and development. Sage is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which aids in digestion, while lemon, a powerhouse of Vitamin C, enhances your immunity. This delectably wholesome combination, marinated in healthy fats from butter and olive oil, nourishes your body as much as it tickles your taste buds.
But, as a lawyer, what I truly appreciate about this recipe is how the preparation is as straightforward as a legal brief. So, even on those weekdays when courtroom battles have taken a toll, a mouthwatering dinner is never far from reach. This is not just a recipe, it is a story – a story of where I come from, a story of where I am currently, and a story of where I am going. And there’s immense love and pride in that.
So, whether you are new to Afro-Southern fusion or an experienced connoisseur, give the Sage Butter Chicken a try. Let its fusion of flavors invigorate your senses and you may find yourself creating a new story of your own.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh sage leaves
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Method
Step One
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Set them aside for a while to allow the seasoning to penetrate the chicken.
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, cook the chicken breasts until they are thoroughly cooked through and golden-brown on both sides. This usually takes approximately 5 minutes on each side. When the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step Three
Leaving the skillet on the stovetop, lower the heat and add butter. Allow the butter to melt, then add minced garlic and fresh sage leaves to the skillet. Continue to sauté until the sage leaves are crispy and the garlic is golden brown. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Pour in lemon juice and stir it well, scraping any bits off the bottom of the skillet.
Step Four
Return the chicken to the skillet and cook it in the sage butter sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavours to blend. Spoon the butter sauce over the chicken a few times to make sure it is well-coated.
Step Five
Follow this step just before serving the dish. Garnish the sage butter chicken with lemon zest and fresh chopped parsley. This will enhance the flavor and aroma as well as improve the visual appearance of the dish.
Step Six
The sage butter chicken is now ready to be served. It is best served hot along with your preferred side dish.
