Garlic chicken is one the go-to meals with tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan and the juicy, well-seasoned chicken can turn any ordinary evening into a five-star experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic chicken is a simple yet delectable dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with flavor, and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Bursting with Flavor: The key to an incredible garlic chicken is a generous amount of fresh garlic, infusing the chicken with rich, savory notes.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a life-saver for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: There are endless ways to make this dish your own!
Ingredients for Garlic Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks all work great.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are a must; minced for maximum flavor release.
- Butter and Olive Oil: A combination for the perfect sear and flavor depth.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Lemon Juice: For a burst of freshness that complements the garlic.
- Chicken Broth: To create a flavorful sauce that keeps the chicken moist.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Garlic Chicken
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and prevent dry chicken.
- Golden Sear: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this allows the chicken to sear properly, achieving a beautiful golden crust.
- Garlic Infusion: If you’re a garlic lover, try adding whole, smashed garlic cloves to the skillet for an extra burst of flavor.
Pro Tip: Deglaze the pan with white wine instead of chicken broth for a sophisticated twist!
Delicious Variations to Try
Garlic chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Creamy Garlic Chicken: Add heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, velvety texture.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Herb-Infused Chicken: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or dill for a fresh, earthy flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken
Garlic chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorites:
- Pasta: Toss cooked pasta in the garlic sauce for a complete meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: A simple, fluffy base to soak up all the juices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or brussels sprouts make a healthy and delicious side.
- Garlic Bread: For true garlic lovers, serve with homemade garlic bread to double down on flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
Garlic chicken stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Storage Tip: Always store the chicken with a bit of sauce to maintain moisture.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Just be aware that chicken breasts cook faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then refrigerate. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have fresh garlic?
A: While fresh garlic is best, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
Garlic Chicken
Garlic chicken is one the go-to meals with tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan and the juicy, well-seasoned chicken can turn any ordinary evening into a five-star experience.
Ingredients
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breast, halves cut into 1- to 1-1/2 inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons good olive oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 medium lemon quartered (optional, serve on the side)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Gravy
- 1 tablespoon flour heaping
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Prep Your Chicken: Pat chicken cubes dry (this is crucial for a good sear). Toss them with flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pro Tip: Use only the amount of flour listed—trust me, it’s just right!
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving, forming a golden crust. Flip and cook another 3-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic Goodness: Combine the garlic and parsley. Toss them into the skillet along with the butter, sauté for an extra minute, and keep the chicken coated. Transfer the chicken to a plate but leave those delicious browned bits in the pan.
- Make the Gravy: If there’s excess oil, remove it, leaving about a tablespoon. Melt the butter, then whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for a minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, continuing to whisk until the gravy thickens to your liking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour that rich, savory gravy over your garlic-infused chicken and serve hot. A squeeze of fresh lemon adds a delightful brightness if desired.
Notes
A Few Quick Tips:
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap flour for cornstarch to coat the chicken, and use cornstarch or xanthan gum to thicken the gravy.
- Make It Your Own: Don’t be shy to customize the flavors with extra herbs or a splash of white wine in the gravy.
Nutrition Information
Yield
5Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 251Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 81mgSodium 453mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 23g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Garlic chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving family, friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy meal. With simple ingredients and a few tricks, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a staple in your home.
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