Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched countryside of Provence with just one bite - a succulent chicken recipe that combines the rustic charm of French cuisine with the bold, aromatic flavors of herbs and garlic. This Garlic Chicken with Herbs de Provence isn't just another dinner; it's a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into an extraordinary dining experience that will have your family and guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons herbs de Provence
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crisp exterior.
- Season both sides of chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of herbs de Provence, pressing the herbs into the meat to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to promote proper browning.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side, developing a golden-brown crust without moving the meat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet around the chicken, allowing it to become fragrant but not burn.
- Flip chicken breasts and cook an additional 6-7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Sprinkle remaining herbs de Provence over chicken during the last minute of cooking for an extra aromatic finish.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Optionally, spoon pan drippings and toasted garlic over chicken before serving to enhance flavor.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from chicken breasts, which is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Herb Infusion Technique: Press herbs directly into the meat to maximize flavor absorption and create a more intense taste profile.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give each chicken breast enough space in the skillet to promote proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Resting is Key: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Bonus Flavor Tip: Spoon those delicious pan drippings and toasted garlic over the chicken just before serving for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 375kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
