Knowing how to make a simple pan sauce was pretty much a game-changer.
I most often use water, chicken broth, or red or white wine, then toss in some dried parsley, black pepper, and a slice of butter. Red pepper flakes, garlic powder, lemon juice, and/or basil are also good go-to’s depending on what you want to end up with.
You can also make your own “buffalo hot sauce” by using something like Frank’s Red Hot as the liquid. Only downside is that you basically tear gas yourself while it’s reducing, so get some ventilation.