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–+ servings

Easy Garlic Chicken Dinner - Simple, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 pieces), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for light dredging)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6–8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (balances the lemon and garlic)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, a splash of white wine, or a few capers

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken. Pat the chicken dry, then pound thicker ends to even thickness (about 3/4 inch). Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Lightly dust with flour and shake off any excess.
  2. Heat the pan. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When the butter foams and just begins to brown, it’s ready.
  3. Sear the chicken. Lay the chicken in the pan without crowding. Sear 4–5 minutes per side, until golden with an internal temperature around 160°F. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Lower heat for garlic. Turn the heat down to medium-low. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir in the sliced garlic. Cook 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant and lightly golden. Don’t let it burn.
  5. Build the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in lemon juice and honey. Simmer 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Return the chicken. Add the chicken and any juices back to the pan. Spoon sauce over the top and simmer 1–2 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F and the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  7. Finish and serve. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve with extra lemon wedges. Spoon the garlicky sauce over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.

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