Garlic Skillet Chicken

$To make this dish, you need a few key items. These ingredients create the base for the tasty flavors. Here’s what you will need: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 tablespoons olive oil - 6 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients combine to make a rich and savory meal. The smoked paprika adds depth, while the garlic gives it a punch. If you want to boost the flavor, consider adding some extra items. Here are a few options to try: - Fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy taste - A splash of white wine for acidity - Cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness - Capers for a salty, tangy kick Adding these can make your dish even more exciting and layered. Sometimes, you may need to adjust ingredients. Here are some substitutes for dietary needs: - Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor. - Swap olive oil with avocado oil or butter for a different taste. - Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. - Replace garlic with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. These substitutes help you make this dish fit your needs while keeping the taste delicious. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step adds a lot of flavor. While you do this, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot before adding the chicken. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until they look golden brown. Then, carefully flip the chicken. Add the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if you like spice. Sauté for around 1 minute. Watch the garlic closely; it should smell great but not brown. Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cover the skillet and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is key to ensuring the chicken cooks all the way through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After simmering, remove the lid. Let the chicken cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce a bit. It will cling to the chicken nicely. Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your meal! To get the best garlic flavor, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic has a strong taste. Mince it finely for more flavor release. Add it to the skillet just before the chicken is done cooking. This keeps the garlic from burning and losing its flavor. Start with chicken breasts at room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides well with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for a nice sear. Flip the chicken once it is golden brown. After adding garlic, lower the heat. This keeps the chicken juicy. Cover the skillet while it simmers. This traps steam and keeps the chicken moist. Serve your garlic skillet chicken with rice or mashed potatoes. They soak up the tasty sauce well. A side of steamed veggies adds color and nutrition. A fresh salad pairs nicely too. For a fun twist, serve the chicken in warm tortillas with toppings. The options are endless! Pro Tips Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options. Always opt for fresh for the best taste. Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors. {{image_2}} To add some heat, try making Spicy Garlic Skillet Chicken. Start with the basic recipe. Then, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon. You can also add sliced jalapeños when you sauté the garlic. This gives your dish a nice kick. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. Serve with a side of rice to balance the heat. For a fresh twist, try Lemon-Herb Garlic Skillet Chicken. Use the same method but add the zest of one lemon before you pour in the broth. You can also swap dried oregano for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. The lemon adds brightness, and the herbs give depth. This version pairs well with steamed vegetables for a light meal. If you love creamy sauces, you’ll enjoy Creamy Garlic Skillet Chicken. After cooking the chicken, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with the chicken broth. Mix well to combine. Let it simmer until thickened. This creamy version is perfect over pasta or mashed potatoes. Add some grated Parmesan for extra flavor. Store leftover garlic skillet chicken in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool first. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This will keep it fresh for about three to four days. To reheat, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat for about five to seven minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also use a microwave, but cover it to avoid dryness. Heat it in short bursts, about one minute at a time, until it’s hot all the way through. You can freeze garlic skillet chicken for later use. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It will stay good for up to three months. To defrost, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Thighs bring more flavor and stay juicy. They cook similarly to breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly. Cook them until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). You can use any oil you like. Canola oil, avocado oil, or melted butter work well. Each oil has a different taste, so pick one that suits your dish. Remember, the flavor may change based on your choice. The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. Look for 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The meat should be white, and juices should run clear. This blog covered how to make garlic skillet chicken. We looked at key ingredients and steps. I shared tips on cooking juicy chicken and enhancing flavor. You can try fun variations like spicy or creamy garlic chicken. Storing leftovers is easy, and I answered common questions about the recipe. This dish is simple, tasty, and great for any meal. Enjoy every bite!$

A delicious and easy chicken dish cooked in a garlic-infused broth.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
to taste salt and pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano on both sides.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until golden brown.
Flip the chicken breasts and add the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the lid and let the chicken cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Optional red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on spice preference.

Keyword chicken, dinner, easy, garlic, skillet