Garlic Chicken (Juicy, Flavor-Packed & Easy!)
Introduction
Garlic Chicken is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing recipes that never fails. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor.This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve guests. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The aroma of sizzling garlic and butter alone will make your kitchen smell irresistible!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6–8 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.
Add butter and minced garlic.
Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t burn the garlic!).
Add Liquid
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Add heavy cream if making creamy garlic chicken.
Finish Cooking
Return chicken to the skillet.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).
Stir in lemon juice and chili flakes.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve warm with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Serving Ideas
Over buttery mashed potatoes
With garlic butter rice
Alongside roasted broccoli or asparagus
With crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Tips for Perfect Garlic Chicken
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
If sauce is too thin, simmer longer to reduce.
For extra richness, add grated Parmesan.
For a lighter version, skip cream and use extra broth.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 380–450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
(Values vary depending on cream usage.)
Final Thoughts
Garlic Chicken is simple, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer it creamy or light, this recipe guarantees juicy chicken and a bold garlic flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again!