Spanish Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, flavorful, and made with just a handful of ingredients. The garlic becomes mellow and aromatic as it cooks, while the chicken turns golden and juicy. The sauce is rich yet light, perfect for dipping bread or serving over rice. It’s an easy one-pan meal that feels authentic and comforting.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, sliced or whole
• Dry white wine
• Bay leaves
• Paprika (sweet or smoked)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook gently until fragrant and lightly golden.
5. Pour in the white wine and add bay leaves, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and cook for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
7. Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes for heat.
• Extra garlic: Use more garlic for a stronger flavor.
• No wine: Substitute with chicken broth.
• Herb twist: Add thyme or rosemary.
• Crispier chicken: Finish under the broiler for a golden crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What is Spanish garlic chicken?

It’s a traditional dish of chicken cooked with garlic, olive oil, and wine.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken works well and cooks faster.

What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine is best.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you add chili flakes.

What can I serve with it?

Rice, potatoes, or crusty bread pair well.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How do I avoid burning garlic?

Cook it gently over medium or low heat.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms or peppers work well.

Why is it called Pollo al Ajillo?

“Ajillo” refers to the garlic-based preparation.

Conclusion

Spanish Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the beauty of garlic, olive oil, and tender chicken. With its rustic charm and rich taste, it’s a perfect recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Spanish Garlic Chicken

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Spanish Garlic Chicken, or Pollo al Ajillo, is a rustic dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a fragrant garlic, olive oil, and white wine sauce. It’s simple, bold, and full of comforting flavor.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan Fry
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• Chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, sliced or whole
• Dry white wine
• Bay leaves
• Paprika (sweet or smoked)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, cook the garlic gently until fragrant and lightly golden.
5. Add white wine and bay leaves, and let it simmer for a few minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and cook for 15–20 minutes until tender and fully cooked.
7. Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Use chicken broth instead of wine if preferred.
• Add chili flakes for a spicy variation.
• Cook garlic gently to avoid burning and bitterness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg