If you’re longing for a dish that’s bursting with bright, bold flavors and comforting textures, this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, perfectly seared chicken cubes enveloped in a luscious garlic-parsley butter sauce, finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice that wakes up your palate. This recipe is simplicity at its finest but delivers a restaurant-quality meal that feels homey and fresh all at once. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the juicy chicken breast cubes for hearty protein, to the fresh parsley that adds vibrant color and herbaceous notes, and the lemon that brightens up the whole dish with its zesty punch.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (21 ounces): Cubed for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- Flour (1 tablespoon + 1 heaping tablespoon): Lightly coats chicken to create a crisp golden crust and helps thicken the gravy.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances natural flavors and balances the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- Good quality olive oil (2 tablespoons): For perfect searing and rich flavor.
- Chopped garlic (1 tablespoon): Packs an aromatic punch that infuses every bite.
- Chopped fresh parsley (3 tablespoons): Offers a fresh, vibrant contrast to the buttery richness.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons total): Creates a luscious sauce and adds creaminess without overpowering.
- Medium lemon (quartered, optional): Served on the side for a fresh burst of citrus to brighten the chicken.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Forms the flavorful base of the luscious gravy poured over the chicken.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Dredge the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken cubes dry with paper towels—this is crucial to getting that beautiful crunch later on. Then toss the chicken in a bowl with the specified flour, salt, and pepper. Keep to the exact flour amount; it’s balanced to deliver just the right coating without becoming gummy. This simple step preps the chicken for a delicious golden crust that seals in juiciness.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat your olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Place the chicken cubes in a single layer to ensure each piece gets beautifully browned. Cook about 4 to 5 minutes without moving to build that crust, then flip the pieces and continue cooking another 3 to 5 minutes. This creates a flavor-packed foundation you’ll absolutely love.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Parsley, and Butter
While the chicken is cooking, mix your chopped garlic and parsley in a small bowl. Once the chicken is browned, add butter along with this mixture directly to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about a minute, frequently shaking the pan so that every piece of chicken gets vibrant garlic and herb coating. This step infuses the dish with deep, warm flavors that feel both fresh and comforting.
Step 4: Prepare the Rich Gravy
Remove the chicken from the pan using a spoon, leaving behind the browned bits and herbs. If needed, discard excess oil but leave about a tablespoon. Melt some butter over medium heat, then add the heaping tablespoon of flour. Stir and cook the roux for about a minute to get rid of any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in your chicken broth, combining it smoothly. Keep stirring over medium-high heat until your gravy thickens to a luscious, velvety consistency, perfect for spooning over the chicken.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, serve your chicken with a wedge of lemon on the side. A quick squeeze brightens every bite with a lovely citrus zing. You can also sprinkle a handful of extra fresh parsley on top for color and fresh herbal notes that make the dish pop visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes that soak up every bit of the delicious gravy. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or steamed veggies add freshness and balance the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted asparagus for an elegant touch. Drizzle a bit more of the pan gravy over the top and garnish with lemon zest curls. This adds a sophisticated flair while keeping true to the dish’s comforting roots.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the gravy separated or spoon it back over when reheating to preserve the texture and moisture of the chicken.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freeze your chicken and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to maintain tenderness and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. This prevents the chicken from drying out and keeps the garlic parsley lemon flavors fresh and vibrant, just like the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, making them very flavorful and juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley if I don’t have any on hand?
If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use fresh cilantro or basil for a different but delightful twist. Dried parsley is an option, but fresh herbs really make a difference in this recipe’s brightness.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can make this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging and thickening the gravy.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can dredge the chicken with flour, salt, and pepper a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. The sauce is best made fresh but can be reheated without any issues.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly?
The chicken should be cooked through with no pink inside, and it should feel firm but still juicy. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe. It’s friendly enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to serve for guests. The harmony of garlicky butter, fresh herbs, and bright lemon juice comes together in a dish that’s flavorful, comforting, and downright irresistible. I’m confident this will make a starring appearance in your recipe collection very soon.
Print
Garlic Chicken with Parsley and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, bite-sized pieces of boneless skinless chicken breast seared to perfection in a skillet and finished with a luscious garlic parsley butter sauce and homemade chicken gravy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 21 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 3 large breasts, cut into 1- to 1–1/2 inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons good olive oil
Garlic and Herb Mixture
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Gravy
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon heaping flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
Optional
- 1 medium lemon, quartered (serve on the side)
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon flour, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl, coating them evenly. Avoid adding more flour to keep the coating light.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add the chicken cubes in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to develop a golden crust. Turn the pieces and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until cooked through and nicely browned.
- Add Garlic and Parsley: While the chicken cooks, combine chopped garlic and parsley in a small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter along with the garlic-parsley mixture to the skillet. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, shaking the skillet occasionally to evenly coat the chicken with the flavorful butter and herbs.
- Remove Chicken: Use a spoon to remove the chicken from the skillet to a plate, leaving the browned bits, parsley, and garlic in the pan as a flavor base for the gravy.
- Prepare the Gravy: If there is excess oil in the pan, drain all but about 1 tablespoon. Over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the skillet and melt it. Stir in 1 heaping tablespoon of flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to make a roux.
- Add Chicken Broth: Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking constantly to combine and prevent lumps. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens and reduces slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Pour the hot garlic parsley gravy over the chicken pieces. Optionally, serve with lemon quarters on the side for added brightness. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor and aroma.
- Drying the chicken before coating helps achieve a crispy crust.
- Do not overload the pan to ensure even cooking and browning of the chicken.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a bit more flour to the roux.
- This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
