If you're ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and a touch of Spanish flair, look no further than Pollo al Ajillo—Garlic Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender chicken thighs with the rich aroma of garlic, a hint of paprika, and a splash of white wine, creating a symphony of tastes that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is not only delicious but also quick enough for a weeknight meal. Dive into this irresistible recipe and discover how to make a culinary masterpiece that transports you straight to the heart of Spain!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup white wine
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin and better browning.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Rub the chicken thighs thoroughly with the garlic seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan, allowing the skin to crisp and turn golden brown, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook the other side for an additional 5-6 minutes until golden and nearly cooked through.
- Pour white wine into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance the sauce's flavor.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, spooning the garlic pan sauce over the chicken.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best results, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They stay juicy and absorb the flavors beautifully.
- Patience is Key: Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for the first few minutes to achieve that perfect golden-brown, crispy skin.
- Customize Your Garlic: If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more cloves! The garlic will mellow out during cooking, providing a rich flavor.
- Wine Selection: Use a good quality white wine that you enjoy drinking. It will enhance the sauce and the overall flavor of the dish.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step after cooking. It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also freshens up the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad to soak up the delicious garlic sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
