Name: Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With the rich aroma of garlic and a blend of fresh herbs, this chicken is sautéed to perfection, creating a tender and juicy meal. Whether served with vegetables, pasta, or over a bed of rice, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about the rich, savory flavors of garlic and fresh herbs. The sautéed chicken breasts are juicy and perfectly seasoned, making them the perfect base for a wide variety of side dishes. The garlic adds depth of flavor, while the fresh herbs brighten up the dish, giving it a beautiful, well-balanced taste. This recipe is also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. It’s a go-to for anyone who loves delicious, homemade meals that don’t take long to prepare.

Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken

Igredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can also lightly pound the chicken to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Cook the Garlic and Herbs: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the fresh thyme and rosemary to the skillet and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Dish: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the garlic and herb mixture over the top. Let the chicken simmer for another 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet, garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired). Serve immediately with your choice of side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect option for a quick yet flavorful meal.

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet while cooking the garlic for extra flavor and color.
Spicy Garlic and Herb Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and herb mixture for some heat.
Use Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, basil, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Butter: For a richer flavor, replace some of the olive oil with butter when sautéing the chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs will be juicier and more flavorful, but they will require a slightly longer cooking time (about 8-10 minutes per side).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried thyme for 1 tablespoon fresh thyme).

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the garlic and herb mixture to add some heat.

Can I use frozen chicken?

If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can either defrost them in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.

Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil will provide the best flavor for this dish.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, be sure to monitor the cooking time. Don’t overcook it—once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.

How do I serve Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a side of rice for a well-rounded meal.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving can elevate the flavors and add a touch of richness.

Conclusion

Garlic and Herb Sautéed Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the savory depth of garlic and fresh herbs with tender, juicy chicken. It’s quick to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will never disappoint. Enjoy the aromatic blend of garlic and herbs in every bite!

Jane