Garlic chicken is a timeless dish loved for its simplicity and bold, savory flavor. The combination of tender chicken and fragrant garlic creates a truly irresistible meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate gathering. This recipe offers a straightforward approach to achieving perfectly cooked chicken coated in a rich and flavorful garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 - 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix) or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you're a garlic lover!)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches). Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown. If using bone-in chicken, ensure it's cooked almost all the way through before proceeding to the next step. If using boneless chicken, cook until browned on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
- Make the Sauce: If using, pour in the white wine or chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
- Combine Everything: Stir in the soy sauce, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Return the Chicken: Return the chicken pieces to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5-10 minutes (for boneless chicken) or 15-20 minutes (for bone-in chicken), or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot with rice, pasta, or your favorite sides.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Garlic: If you're a true garlic lover, feel free to add even more garlic to the recipe!
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness.
- Ginger Garlic Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the skillet along with the garlic for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the garlic for a more complete meal.
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and adding it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
This garlic chicken recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The flavorful sauce and tender chicken make it a truly delicious meal for any occasion.