This garlic chicken is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish made with tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic-infused sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough to serve for a family dinner, delivering bold taste with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare, uses everyday pantry ingredients, and delivers big flavor without being complicated. The garlic sauce is savory and aromatic, coating the chicken perfectly while keeping it juicy and tender. It pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 120 ml chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the soy sauce, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 3 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes.

Variations

You can add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. For a spicy version, include a pinch of chili flakes or a small amount of hot sauce. Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work very well and result in a juicier texture.

Is this recipe very garlicky?

It has a strong garlic flavor, but it is well balanced by the sauce and seasonings.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it can be cooked ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What can I serve with garlic chicken?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Can I freeze garlic chicken?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Add the garlic after the chicken is cooked and keep the heat moderate.

Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes, you can replace it with a pinch of salt and a little extra chicken broth.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, it is mild in flavor and kid-friendly.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Add a little more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer until desired thickness is reached.

Can I add vegetables directly to the pan?

Yes, vegetables like broccoli or green beans can be added during the simmering step.

Conclusion

Garlic chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals for the week, this recipe delivers reliable results and satisfying taste every time.

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