Garlic Chicken Recipe
Looking for the best Garlic Chicken recipe? This easy one-pan meal features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with herbs and a splash of lemon. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a family-friendly dinner that’s perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic butter flavor
Juicy and tender chicken
Easy one-skillet recipe
Ready in just 35 minutes
Perfect for busy weeknights
High-protein and family-friendly
⏱️ Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
6 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Garnish
Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to loosen any browned bits from the pan.
Add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet.
Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered rice
Pasta
Roasted vegetables
Steamed green beans
Garlic bread
💡 Chef’s Tips
Use fresh garlic for the boldest flavor.
Chicken thighs are an excellent substitute if you prefer darker meat.
Add sliced mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor.
Finish with grated Parmesan for an even richer taste.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Up to 3 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 360
Protein: 39g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 540mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices stay inside.
Can I make this recipe creamy?
Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese after adding the broth to create a creamy garlic sauce.
What sides go well with garlic chicken?
Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, roasted asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad are all delicious choices.
