If you’re craving a fuss-free, flavor-packed dinner that brings big smiles to the table, Garlic Chicken is about to become your new go-to recipe. Tender cubes of chicken breast sizzle until perfectly golden, then get tossed in a dreamy garlic-parsley butter sauce that clings to every bite. Paired with a quick homemade gravy and a fresh squeeze of lemon, this dish comes together in half an hour but tastes like you fussed all evening. I absolutely love serving this on busy weeknights, and trust me: Garlic Chicken is one of those crowd-pleasers that never fails to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish is in its simplicity. Every ingredient in Garlic Chicken has a purpose, adding flavor, richness, or a pop of color that makes each bite unforgettable. Gather these pantry staples and a few fresh items to make the meal truly shine.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized cubes for quick, even cooking and juicy results.
Flour: A light dusting gives the chicken a gorgeous crust while helping thicken the sauce later.
Salt: Enhances the savory flavors and brings out the best in every ingredient.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and aromatic lift—don’t skip it!
Olive oil: Use a good-quality oil for luscious flavor and a crisp sear on the chicken.
Chopped garlic: The star of Garlic Chicken—fresh, fragrant, and absolutely essential for depth.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for a burst of color and a subtle grassy note to balance the richness.
Unsalted butter: Adds silkiness to both the sautéed chicken and the glossy homemade gravy.
Lemon: Quartered for serving; its tangy brightness wakes up the whole dish and is optional, but highly recommended!
Chicken broth: The backbone of your savory gravy, choose a low-sodium version if possible so you can control the seasoning.

How to Make Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Dredge the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken cubes completely dry with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a crisp, golden crust! Toss the chicken in a bowl with the flour, salt, and black pepper until every piece is lightly coated. This step creates the perfect outer layer once the chicken hits the skillet, locking in flavor and juiciness. Don’t be tempted to add more flour—just enough to barely dust the chicken is all you need.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. You want the pan almost smoking hot so the chicken sizzles right away. Add the floured chicken cubes in a single layer—avoid crowding the pan so each piece browns beautifully. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust, then flip and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until all pieces are cooked through.

Step 3: Add Flavor with Garlic and Parsley

While the chicken cooks, combine the chopped garlic and parsley in a small bowl. Once the chicken is nearly finished, add butter and the garlic-parsley mixture directly into the skillet. Sauté for one more minute, shaking the pan to coat the chicken in all that garlicky, herby goodness. This is when your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible!

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, leaving the flavorful bits in the skillet. If needed, pour off excess oil so there’s about a tablespoon left. Add more butter and melt over medium heat, then stir in a heaping tablespoon of flour. Cook for a minute, whisking constantly, to make a light roux. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking until smooth, and simmer until the gravy thickens slightly—it should be glossy and rich enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Pour the warm, garlicky gravy over the chicken on a serving platter, and finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice if you like an extra tangy edge. Get ready to see the Garlic Chicken disappear in minutes!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, while a few extra lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to add a zesty lift. For a pretty finishing touch, you can even add a dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil—simple upgrades that elevate Garlic Chicken from humble to show-stopping.

Side Dishes

Garlic Chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up that delicious gravy. On the lighter side, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even blanched green beans for a refreshing crunch. The versatility means this dish fits any mood or season!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Garlic Chicken in shallow bowls atop creamy polenta or over a bed of garlic butter noodles. If you’re planning a casual gathering, place the chicken on a large platter sprinkled with colorful herbs for your guests to help themselves. Individual ramekins with a sprinkle of extra parsley make beautiful single servings at a more elegant table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Chicken is just as delicious the next day. Store cooled chicken and gravy together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce with the chicken helps the flavors meld beautifully and the meat stays moist.

Freezing

Garlic Chicken freezes well for meal prep or future cravings! Allow the chicken and gravy to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays tender and the flavors remain robust.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a wonderful swap for breasts in Garlic Chicken. They add extra juiciness and a bit more flavor. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Garlic Chicken gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. The texture and flavor will still be outstanding, and your gravy will thicken nicely.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. This recipe is easy to scale up. Sear the chicken in batches if needed for the best browning, then return it all to the skillet for the final sauce step. Your guests will be so glad you made extra!

What’s the best way to mince garlic for the sauce?

For that signature punchy flavor in Garlic Chicken, use a sharp knife to finely chop fresh cloves, or press them in a garlic press for a finer texture. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic, which can have a milder, less vibrant taste.

How thick should the gravy be?

The ideal gravy for Garlic Chicken is thick enough to coat a spoon but thin enough to pour over the chicken easily. If it’s a bit too thin, simmer for another minute or two; if too thick, whisk in a little extra broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken is pure comfort in a skillet, with every bite bursting with rich, garlicky flavor and zesty freshness. If you’re searching for a dish that’s fast, unfussy, and utterly satisfying, give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat. Enjoy every last morsel!