Description
This Delicious Garlic Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts pan-cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce with hints of oregano, thyme, paprika, and fresh lemon. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner pieces ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: Lower heat to medium in the same skillet. Add butter and let it melt, then stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the garlic sauce over them. Let them simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and serve immediately, optionally adding lemon zest for extra citrus brightness.
Notes
- For even cooking, consider pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness if not slicing.
- Substitute white wine for chicken broth in the sauce to add a deeper flavor.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.