Name: Spanish Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: spanish
Ingredients: 4-6 pieces chicken (bone-in, skin-on preferred); 10-12 garlic cloves, peeled; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp paprika; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Short Description

Spanish Garlic Chicken, or Pollo al Ajillo, is a classic Spanish dish that highlights the rich and aromatic flavors of garlic, olive oil, and white wine. This rustic dish is simple to prepare yet delivers bold, savory flavors that make it a favorite in Spanish cuisine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a tapas-style gathering, this dish pairs well with crusty bread and a side of roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with flavor: The combination of golden-browned garlic, white wine, and paprika infuses the chicken with incredible depth.
Simple ingredients: Uses common pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and white wine.
Quick to prepare: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.
Authentic Spanish taste: Inspired by traditional Spanish cooking, this dish brings the essence of Spain to your table.
Versatile serving options: Pairs beautifully with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

Chicken (bone-in, skin-on pieces preferred)
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Dry white wine
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley
Paprika
Bay leaves
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry and season them with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the whole garlic cloves and cook until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
Brown the chicken: In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
Simmer with broth: Return the garlic and chicken to the skillet. Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, and optional red pepper flakes. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Finish with parsley and lemon: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and drizzle with lemon juice for a bright finish.
Serve: Enjoy hot with crusty bread or your preferred side dish.

Variations

Boneless option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time.
Add mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for extra depth.
Spicier version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Herb-infused: Add thyme or rosemary for additional aromatic notes.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture.

FAQs

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium heat until golden brown, then remove it before browning the chicken. This prevents bitterness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out.

What type of wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Spanish Albariño works best for authentic flavor.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! The flavors develop beautifully when left to sit. Reheat gently before serving.

What sides go well with Spanish Garlic Chicken?

Serve with rice, roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for wine?

Use additional chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook for about 10 minutes with the broth and wine.

How do I get crispy skin on the chicken?

Sear the chicken well before simmering and finish under the broiler for a few minutes if needed.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms complement the dish well.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in.

Conclusion

Spanish Garlic Chicken is a must-try dish that brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to your kitchen. With its rich garlic-infused sauce and tender, flavorful chicken, it’s an easy yet impressive meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a comforting dinner or part of a tapas spread, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Spain at home!

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