Garlic Chicken Recipe

Perfect for Busy Weeknights. This garlic chicken recipe is ideal for those busy nights when you want a hot and flavorful meal but you don’t have much time to cook. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner in no time!
Rich in Flavor. This recipe not only showcases the bold taste of garlic but also balances it with herbs and a hint of lemon, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that stands out on any dinner table!

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken

Chicken Breasts: Fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts serve as the base for this dish, ensuring quick cooking and tenderness.
Fresh Garlic: The star ingredient that imparts an aromatic flavor profile; use minced garlic for the best results.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and freshness, counterbalancing the richness of the chicken and garlic.
Olive Oil: Helps in sautéing the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Seasonal staples to taste, ensuring the chicken is well-flavored.

How to Make Garlic Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs on both sides.
Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it.
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice and bring it to a simmer. Add the sliced chicken back into the sauce, tossing to coat.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Tips for Making Garlic Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken breasts so they can brown nicely.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary; ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make-Ahead Instructions

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for up to 24 hours in advance for enhanced flavor.
Prepare the garlic sauce ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing Garlic Chicken

To freeze, place cooled garlic chicken in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating Garlic Chicken

To reheat leftovers, place your chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
You can also use the microwave in short increments at 50% power, stirring often to heat evenly.

Serving Suggestions

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe but may require a bit more cooking time.

What can I serve with garlic chicken?

Garlic chicken pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about a third of the amount as they are more concentrated in flavor.

How can I make it spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce can introduce some heat to the dish!

Garlic Chicken Recipe

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