Easy Garlic Chicken Recipe

In this article, we will explore an easy garlic chicken recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home kitchen. Garlic chicken, rich with the flavor of garlic and herbs, provides a delicious, comforting meal for any occasion.

Cooking time: 30 minutes, Servings: 4 people

Ingredients Needed:

• Chicken breasts or thighs (4 pieces)
• Olive oil
• Fresh garlic cloves (6-8 cloves), minced
• Lemon juice
• Thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cornstarch for dusting the chicken or flour
• Butter or olive oil for cooking

Steps to Prepare Garlic Chicken:

To start preparing this delightful dish, begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Take out your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps in achieving a better searing process.

Dust the chicken pieces lightly with cornstarch or flour, which will help the garlic mixture adhere well to the chicken. Set aside.

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until it is hot but not smoking. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make your dish taste bitter.

Once the garlic is nicely cooked, remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and place it in a baking dish or casserole. Sprinkle some thyme on top of the garlic.

Mix lemon juice into the remaining oil in the skillet over low heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once the butter or olive oil has been heated, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces into the pan. Let them cook until they are golden brown on both sides (about 5-6 minutes per side). Ensure that each side gets a good sear; this will help lock in all the flavors and juices.

Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer it to the baking dish with the garlic mixture. Pour any remaining sauce over the top of the chicken pieces.

Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when checked using a meat thermometer. During this time, the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken infused with the essence of garlic.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Chicken:

• For extra crispy skin, use parchment paper under the baking dish to catch any excess fat as it cooks.
• If you prefer less garlic flavor or are looking for a milder taste, simply reduce the amount used in your recipe. You can also add more herbs like oregano or rosemary if desired.
• For added moisture and richness, consider adding some white wine to the pan when sautéing the garlic; it will help deglaze the pan and create a sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.

Conclusion:

Garlic chicken is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. The combination of fresh garlic, herbs, and spices creates an irresistible dish that everyone loves. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to treat yourself or your family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Feel free to adjust ingredients according to what you have at home; you might even add a few vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to make it more nutritious and colorful.

This recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles around your table, making every mealtime an enjoyable experience. So why wait? Start preparing this delightful dish today!