Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Garlic Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken infused with the aromatic taste of garlic, it’s a meal that will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile: Pair it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic and herbs elevates the taste to restaurant-quality.
• Healthy: Using simple, wholesome ingredients makes this a guilt-free option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh garlic cloves
• Olive oil or butter
• Chicken broth or white wine
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Deglaze the pan: Add chicken broth or white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, add lemon juice, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Creamy: Stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce for a creamy texture.
• Herbed: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herby flavor.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or cauliflower.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well but will require a longer cooking time.

2. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.

3. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, prepare the dish and reheat it when ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze garlic chicken?

Yes, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

5. What side dishes pair well with garlic chicken?

Garlic chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

6. Can I substitute lemon juice?

White vinegar or lime juice can be used as substitutes for lemon juice.

7. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

8. Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, after searing the chicken, transfer it to the oven at 375°F until cooked through.

9. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

10. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Garlic Chicken recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or herbed, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort!

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