Los Angeles "Bicycle Shop Cafe" Garlic Chicken
Juicy roasted chicken infused with fragrant garlic and butter, complemented by a savory pan sauce. Perfect for garlic lovers and hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate chopped garlic with 3 ounces of peanut oil for a few minutes.
- Generously season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt and white pepper.
- Use a basting brush to apply the chopped garlic inside and outside of the chicken.
- Heat 3 ounces of butter and 3 ounces of peanut oil in a large, thick pan.
- Place the chicken in the pan and brown it on all sides until golden.
- Transfer the chicken to the oven and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Turn the chicken and baste it every 15 minutes during roasting.
- Remove the chicken from the pan once cooked, discard the fat, and scrape up the juices with a wooden spoon.
- Add about 6 ounces of water to the pan juices.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 3 minutes to reduce the sauce to the desired consistency.
- Strain the pan juices to make a smooth sauce.
- Cut the chicken in half and pour the sauce over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic marinade. If you don't have peanut oil, vegetable or canola oil can be used as substitutes. Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even roasting. Basting the chicken frequently helps to keep it moist and flavorful, similar to techniques used in recipes like Cheesy Garlicy Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a hearty option, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cream Chicken Casserole for a comforting feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Los Angeles "Bicycle Shop Cafe" Garlic Chicken contains roughly 271 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1798mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use smaller cuts like thighs or breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in cuts will retain moisture better and provide a more flavorful dish. Just ensure they reach the correct internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What should I do if I don't have fresh garlic?
If fresh garlic is unavailable, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Generally, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of garlic. However, fresh garlic provides a more intense flavor, so use it if possible for the best results.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way to check if your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced, with no pink meat visible.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).