Easy, Flavorful Chicken in Just Minutes
Looking for a delicious, fuss-free chicken dinner? This Quick Chicken & Garlic recipe is a weeknight hero—made with just three simple ingredients but packed with bold flavor. Whether you’re short on time, low on groceries, or just need something that always works, this dish delivers.
The secret? Quality chicken, fresh garlic, and a touch of oil or butter. That’s it. No complicated steps, no hard-to-find spices—just simple cooking that brings out the natural flavor of your ingredients. You’ll have it on the table in under 30 minutes, and everyone will ask for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Quick Chicken & Garlic recipe. First, it uses only three basic ingredients, making it budget-friendly and perfect for minimalist cooking. Second, it’s incredibly fast to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. Third, the garlic adds a rich, savory depth that transforms plain chicken into something truly mouthwatering.
Because it’s so versatile, you can pair it with almost anything—rice, salad, pasta, or steamed veggies. You can even use the leftovers in sandwiches or wraps. Plus, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and high in protein. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or simply craving something quick and flavorful, this easy garlic chicken recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
You only need the following three ingredients to make this juicy and flavorful chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Choose chicken thighs for a juicier result or breasts for a leaner version. Slice them evenly for quick, even cooking. - 6–8 garlic cloves, finely minced
Fresh garlic is the key here. The aroma and flavor you get from sautéed garlic is unbeatable. - 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Use olive oil for a slightly nutty taste or butter for a rich, creamy flavor. You can even mix both!
Optional: Add salt and pepper to taste, or garnish with fresh parsley or lemon juice for brightness—but these aren’t required to make the base recipe shine.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Note: Nutrition values are estimated based on 4 servings and using olive oil.
Instructions:
Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. Optional: garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Prep the chicken by slicing into even portions if necessary. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Add garlic in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Stir constantly so it doesn’t burn.
Recipe Tips – How to Make It Even Better
- Use a hot pan to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Don’t crowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for even browning.
- Stir the garlic constantly to avoid burning it; burnt garlic turns bitter fast.
- Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of water, broth, or lemon juice to make a quick sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips
Want to prep this meal in advance? No problem! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time with minced garlic and oil (store in a sealed bag or container in the fridge). This gives the meat time to soak in flavor and results in extra juicy, garlicky chicken when cooked.
You can also cook the chicken ahead of time, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in a skillet with a splash of water or broth—or even in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner. Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or packing weekday lunches.
How to Improve This Recipe Even More
Add more texture and depth. While the base recipe is perfectly simple, adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or a handful of parmesan cheese in the last few minutes can take it up a notch. These additions add a crispy or creamy texture that complements the garlic perfectly.
Try different garlic techniques. If you’re a true garlic lover, consider roasting the garlic first for a milder, sweeter flavor, or smashing the cloves for a rustic finish. You can even use garlic-infused oil to bring extra depth without chopping a thing.
Experiment with add-ons. This dish is so flexible—add a splash of lemon juice for tang, throw in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for complexity. Think of this recipe as your base for experimenting with flavors while still keeping it easy.