If you are looking for a meal that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to prepare, this Garlic Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture tender, juicy chicken breasts kissed by a luscious garlic-infused sauce, brightened with lemon and fresh parsley. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or last-minute guests. The blend of garlic and lemon creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home and promises a plate full of comfort and zing with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Chicken Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch both in flavor and texture. Each element plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken breasts to the zesty lemon juice that lifts the whole dish. Get ready for a straightforward shopping list that transforms everyday pantry staples into a memorable dinner.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of the dish, providing the tender, juicy protein base.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to create a golden sear and keeps the chicken moist.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers the bold, fragrant kick that defines this recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who love a little spice.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Builds a flavorful, savory sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with a refreshing tang.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Gives a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for extra richness): Creates a silky, luscious finish to the sauce.
How to Make Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning is the foundation that brings out the natural flavor of the chicken and ensures every bite is tasty.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and let them cook undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes per side until they reach a gorgeous golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This method locks in juicy tenderness while creating a delicious crust. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until your kitchen is filled with that irresistible garlicky aroma, but be careful not to let the garlic burn. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the optional crushed red pepper flakes now to sneak in a hint of heat.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape up all those caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan. Those browned bits are pure flavor gold! Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for 2 to 3 minutes, thickening slightly and intensifying in taste.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the fresh parsley and the optional butter, letting it melt into the sauce to create a smooth, glossy finish. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. This step polishes the sauce to perfection.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Return the chicken breasts back into the skillet, gently spooning the garlic sauce over them. Allow everything to meld for another 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors. Then, it’s ready to serve with extra sauce drizzled generously on top.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a thin slice of lemon on top not only enhances the rustic beauty of the dish but also adds a refreshing pop of flavor. A few cracks of freshly ground black pepper can elevate the taste just prior to serving.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the garlicky sauce beautifully. Alternatively, serve with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus to bring a crunchy, fresh contrast. For a lighter option, a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad works like a charm too.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just jazz up your dinner routine, you can slice the chicken breast and arrange it over a bed of garlic buttered pasta or rice pilaf. Drizzle extra sauce and top with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store any leftover garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again without extra effort.
Freezing
This dish also freezes beautifully. Wrap the chicken breasts individually or in portions with the sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best quality, consume within 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken along with the sauce in a skillet over low to medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help loosen the sauce back up if it thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving and remain juicy, plus they add a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is highly recommended because it provides the brightest, most pungent flavor that defines this recipe. However, if you’re in a pinch, good-quality garlic paste can be substituted, though the taste won’t be quite the same.
How spicy is this Garlic Chicken Recipe?
The recipe is naturally mild, but if you enjoy some heat, the optional crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle kick without overpowering the garlic or lemon notes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the optional butter at the end and use extra olive oil or a vegan butter substitute for richness if desired. The chicken and sauce remain delicious without dairy.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is cooked perfectly?
The safest and easiest method is using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken Recipe is one of those rare gems that combines simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor effortlessly. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, it delivers a satisfying meal that feels special and made with love. Don’t wait to give it a try — once you do, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to dishes for any occasion!
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Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection in a flavorful garlic sauce enhanced with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.
- Make the garlic sauce: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. If using, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Add liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavors.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in chopped fresh parsley and the optional unsalted butter, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the garlic sauce over them. Let the chicken soak up the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, with extra sauce drizzled on top for maximum flavor.
Notes
- For extra richness, add the optional unsalted butter at the end of the sauce preparation.
- To check doneness, ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Crushed red pepper flakes can be omitted for a milder flavor or adjusted according to preference.
- Serve this dish alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
