Garlic Chicken Breast makes a savory weeknight dinner that’s ready fast. The chicken gets a rich, aromatic flavor from fresh garlic and olive oil. Just sear each side until golden, letting the pan do all the work. It’s a satisfying main that pairs beautifully with rice or roasted vegetables.
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Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Breast
For the chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless is the way to go here. If they’re too thick, just slice them in half for even cooking.
- Olive Oil – A good glug to coat the chicken and get that perfect golden sear.
- Garlic – Freshly minced is non-negotiable for that bold, aromatic flavor.
- Kosher Salt – It seasons the chicken perfectly—don’t skimp!
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds the best little kick.
- Paprika – Just a touch for warmth and color.
- Dried Oregano – A classic herb that pairs so well with garlic.
For finishing
- Fresh Parsley – Finely chopped and sprinkled on top for a bright, herby finish.
- Lemon Juice – A quick drizzle at the end adds the perfect zesty touch.
Cook Time for Juicy Chicken Breast
One of my favorite things about this garlic chicken breast recipe is how quickly it comes together. Even on the busiest of weeknights, you can have a gorgeous, juicy chicken breast on the table in no time.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing to help you plan your easy chicken dinner:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
If you love this quick format, you might also enjoy my chicken souvlaki recipe for another fast and flavorful option.
How to Make Pan Seared Chicken Breast
This method for garlic chicken breast is my go-to for a reason. Searing locks in all the juices, creating a fantastic texture and that gorgeous golden color we all love.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, then place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice any thicker breasts in half horizontally, creating even 1-inch thick cutlets to ensure consistent cooking.
Step 2: Create the Flavor Paste
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano until a fragrant paste forms.
Step 3: Marinate Briefly
Rub the garlic and herb mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to marinate briefly.
Step 4: Sear to Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes without moving, until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Flip the chicken breasts and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 5–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer and the juices run clear.
Step 6: Rest and Finish
Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate or cutting board. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle the rested chicken with 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley, then slice and serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve made this garlic chicken breast more times than I can count. Here are a few of my favorite little secrets for making it absolutely perfect every single time.
- Flavor Swap: For a different herb profile, try swapping the oregano for thyme or rosemary. It completely transforms the dish into a savory garlic and oregano chicken alternative.
- Diet Tweaks: This dish is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. For a complete healthy meal, I love to pair it with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple green salad.
- Texture Fix: The secret to that perfect pan seared chicken breast is absolutely to pat it completely dry before seasoning. Any moisture on the surface will steam the chicken instead of sear it. For more crispy ideas, check out my crispy garlic chicken recipe.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers keep beautifully! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a skillet with a tiny bit of broth to keep it moist. It’s fantastic sliced over a grilled chicken salad the next day.
Garlic Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Equipment
- skillet
- instant-read thermometer
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels, then place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice any thicker breasts in half horizontally to create even, 1-inch thick cutlets for consistent cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano until a fragrant paste forms.
- Rub the garlic and herb mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to marinate briefly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving, until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Flip the chicken breasts and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer and the juices run clear.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate or cutting board. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Sprinkle the rested chicken with the 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley, then slice and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
This Garlic Chicken Breast isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that your body will thank you for. I love creating meals that nourish us from the inside out, just like my grandmother always did.
Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein to keep you full and support muscle health, while olive oil offers heart-healthy fats. Garlic isn’t just for flavor—it contains compounds that have been studied for their potential health benefits.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fat | 15g |
For those watching their intake, this juicy chicken breast is naturally low in carbs and fits beautifully into various eating plans. If you’re looking for other healthy options, my grilled chicken breast offers another fantastic lean protein choice.
I always say that good food should make you feel good too. The simple ingredients in this dish work together to create a balanced meal that satisfies without weighing you down. For more information on one-pot garlic chicken techniques and their nutritional benefits, there are some great resources available.
A Lighter Version of Pan Seared Chicken Breast
Sometimes we want all the flavor with a little less richness, and I’ve perfected a few tweaks to lighten up this classic. My sister Sarah prefers her meals on the lighter side, so I’ve had plenty of practice adapting recipes for her family.
For a lower-fat version, simply reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon total and use a good non-stick skillet. You can also swap the oil for avocado oil spray—just mist the pan lightly before adding your chicken.
If you’re watching sodium, cut the salt in half and let the garlic and herbs shine through. The paprika and oregano bring so much depth that you might not even miss the extra salt. I often add a squeeze of fresh lemon right at the end to brighten everything up without adding calories.
For another light and flavorful option, try my lemon chicken recipe—it’s just as tasty but with a citrus twist that feels wonderfully fresh. And if you love herbs, my cilantro lime chicken offers another delicious way to enjoy lean protein without heavy sauces.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
When my cousin was diagnosed as diabetic a few years back, I started paying closer attention to how we could enjoy our family favorites while being sugar conscious. It surprised me how many simple swaps could make such a difference while keeping all the flavor we love.
This Garlic Chicken Breast is naturally diabetic-friendly as written, but if you’re particularly sugar conscious, here are my favorite tweaks. First, ensure your paprika and dried oregano don’t contain any hidden sugars—some spice blends do. Second, the lemon juice at the end provides natural brightness without needing any added sweeteners.
For those monitoring glycemic impact, pair your chicken with non-starchy vegetables like roasted broccoli or a fresh green salad rather than grains. The protein-rich chicken and fiber from vegetables create a balanced meal that supports steady energy levels. If you do want a starch, a small portion of quinoa or sweet potato would be better options than white rice or pasta.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken Breast
I’ll never forget the first time I served this garlic chicken breast to my now-husband. We were dating, and I wanted to impress him with something that felt special but wasn’t fussy. The way his eyes lit up when he took that first bite told me everything—I knew right then this recipe was a keeper.
This versatile Garlic Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with so many sides. For weeknights, I love it with simple roasted vegetables or a quick grilled chicken salad. The savory garlic flavor complements everything from crisp green beans to roasted carrots.
When I’m serving company, I’ll often slice the chicken and arrange it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside chicken pasta for something more substantial. The pan juices make a wonderful light sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Don’t forget about leftovers either—sliced cold chicken makes fantastic sandwiches, or you can chop it up and toss it into pasta salads. The garlic flavor actually deepens overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even more delicious than tonight’s dinner.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve made plenty of mistakes in the kitchen while perfecting this recipe. My brother still teases me about the time I served him hockey-puck chicken that even our dog wouldn’t eat! Learning from those experiences helped me create this foolproof method for perfect Garlic Chicken Breast every time.
The most common mistake is overcrowding the pan. When you add too many chicken pieces at once, they steam instead of sear. Always leave space between each piece—I usually cook in two batches if needed. This ensures that beautiful golden-brown crust we all love.
Another error is moving the chicken too soon. Once you place it in the hot pan, let it cook undisturbed for at least 4-5 minutes. Peeking too early will tear that beautiful sear and make your chicken stick to the pan. Trust the process—it’s worth the wait!
Finally, don’t skip resting your chicken after cooking. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting it rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This simple step transforms your juicy chicken breast from good to restaurant-quality amazing.
For more cooking tips and techniques, check out my authentic Italian chicken cutlets recipe, which shares similar principles for perfect pan-searing. You might also enjoy learning about garlic chicken recipe collection approaches that professional chefs recommend.
How to Store Garlic Chicken Breast
When my daughter went off to college, I made sure she knew how to store leftovers properly. She called me thrilled after her roommates raved about her “gourmet” garlic chicken dinner—and the delicious lunches she made from the leftovers all week!
Proper storage makes this Garlic Chicken Breast even more versatile. Let the chicken cool completely before storing—I usually give it about 30 minutes on the counter. Then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
For freezing, slice the chicken first and place it in freezer-safe bags with all the air pressed out. The frozen pan seared chicken breast will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating is simple too—I prefer using the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but cover it with a damp paper towel to keep the chicken from drying out. The gentle heat helps maintain that wonderful texture.
If you love meal prepping like I do, try my chicken pasta bake for another great make-ahead option. For something different, my Japanese chicken recipe also stores and reheats beautifully for quick weekday meals.
Try This Garlic Chicken Breast Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time my grandmother watched me make this recipe. She nodded slowly as I cooked, then smiled and said, “You’ve finally learned what cooking is really about—sharing love through food.” That moment stays with me every time I make this dish.
This Garlic Chicken Breast has become more than just a recipe in our family—it’s a tradition. It’s the meal I make when friends come over unexpectedly, when my kids need comfort food after a tough day, or when I simply want to treat myself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. The combination of savory garlic, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked chicken creates magic in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish adapts to any occasion with grace and flavor.
If you enjoy this preparation, you might also love my crispy garlic chicken for a different texture experience. For outdoor cooking seasons, my BBQ chicken breasts offer another fantastic option. Those who enjoy stuffed proteins should try my stuffed chicken breasts or broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken for something more elaborate.
For casual meals, my chicken burgers are always a hit, while my Brazilian chicken recipe introduces exciting international flavors. Finally, my chicken souvlaki recipe brings Mediterranean sunshine to your kitchen any time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to cook garlic chicken breast?
Start with room temperature chicken breasts patted dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, then finish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
What is the secret to moist chicken breasts?
The real secret is not overcooking them and letting them rest afterward. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F at the thickest part. Then, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, creating that perfectly juicy chicken breast texture we all love.
What to put with garlic chicken?
This versatile Garlic Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with so many sides! I love it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For heartier meals, try it with quinoa, rice, or pasta. The pan juices make a wonderful light sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
What is the best thing to marinate your chicken in?
For this recipe, I keep it simple with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. The olive oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning, while the acid in the lemon juice gently tenderizes the meat. For deeper flavor, you could marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator, but honestly, this easy chicken dinner is fantastic with just the simple seasoning rub too!
More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If this garlic chicken breast became a new favorite, you might enjoy these other popular recipes that never disappoint at family dinners.
Easy Grilled Chicken Breast – Perfectly charred and juicy chicken with smoky outdoor flavor that’s summer on a plate.
Lemon Chicken – Bright, zesty flavors that wake up your taste buds with every citrus-kissed bite.
Cilantro Lime Chicken – Fresh herbal notes with tangy lime that transports you to warmer climates.
Authentic Italian Chicken Cutlets – Crispy, golden cutlets that bring old-world Italian comfort to your weeknight table.
Chicken Souvlaki – Greek-inspired skewers marinated in garlic and herbs, perfect for pitas or salad toppings.
BBQ Chicken Breasts – Sweet and smoky grilled chicken that’s perfect for backyard gatherings and summer celebrations.
