Chicken aioli is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to our dinner table. Combining tender, juicy chicken with a creamy garlic aioli sauce, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and zesty flavors that everyone will love.
Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to impress guests, chicken aioli fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare and uses everyday ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Chicken Aioli, we gather fresh, simple ingredients that blend together for a perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break down everything we need for each component of the dish.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed and sliced into thin strips)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds subtle smoky depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances savory notes)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Juice of ½ lemon (to tenderize and brighten)
For the Aioli Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise (creamy base for the aioli)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced finely for bold flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adds acidity and freshness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (creates subtle tang and depth)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (to emulsify and enrich)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes and Sides
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for color and fresh herbal notes)
- Lemon wedges (enhance brightness when served)
- Crusty bread or toasted baguette (perfect for dipping in aioli)
- Mixed greens or arugula salad (to balance rich flavors)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Boneless, skinless breasts | 1.5 pounds | Thinly sliced |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds smoky aroma | |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Enhances savory depth | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning | |
| Lemon juice | Juice of ½ lemon | Tenderizes and brightens meat | |
| Aioli Sauce | Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Creamy base |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | For pungent garlic flavor | |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Adds acidity | |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Adds tang and depth | |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Emulsifies and enriches | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning | |
| Garnishes and Sides | Fresh parsley or chives | As needed | For garnish |
| Lemon wedges | As needed | For serving | |
| Crusty bread or baguette | As needed | Ideal for dipping | |
| Mixed greens or arugula | As needed | Balances the dish |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Aioli Recipe with precision and ease, having the right equipment at hand is essential. Here’s a detailed list of tools we’ll need to ensure every step flows smoothly and the flavors develop perfectly.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | For chopping garlic and garnishes |
| Chef’s Knife | To trim and slice the chicken breasts |
| Mixing Bowls | Separate bowls for seasoning chicken and making aioli |
| Whisk or Fork | To emulsify and blend the aioli sauce |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
| Frying Pan or Skillet | To cook the chicken evenly with a golden crust |
| Tongs or Spatula | To flip and handle the chicken cleanly |
| Garlic Press (optional) | For finely mincing garlic quickly |
| Small Serving Bowl | To present the aioli sauce beautifully |
We use a frying pan to achieve perfectly seared chicken with a tender juicy center. For the aioli, a whisk or fork works best to create a creamy, well-emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Having a chef’s knife and cutting board ready makes prep work efficient and safe, especially when mincing garlic or chopping fresh parsley garnishes.
Selecting high-quality measuring tools ensures every ingredient contributes the right flavor balance, highlighting the star of this dish—our savory chicken paired with vibrant garlic aioli.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, proper Prep Work ensures our Chicken Aioli Recipe comes together smoothly. Let’s get our ingredients ready step-by-step.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim and pat dry 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This removes excess moisture for better searing.
- Slice each breast into even pieces about 1-inch thick for uniform cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the following seasonings to create our flavorful chicken rub:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
- Toss the chicken pieces thoroughly in the seasoning mix, coating each piece evenly.
- Set the seasoned chicken aside to marinate at least 10 minutes. This step lets the flavors penetrate deeply.
Making the Aioli Sauce
To achieve a rich and zesty garlic aioli that perfectly complements our chicken:
- In a clean bowl, combine:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | A pinch |
- Whisk all ingredients vigorously using a fork or whisk. Emulsify until the aioli is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as preferred.
- Cover the aioli and refrigerate to meld flavors while we cook the chicken.
With these prep steps complete, we’re perfectly set to cook our Chicken Aioli to golden, flavorful perfection.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to cook the Chicken Aioli perfectly and assemble a dish that bursts with flavor and creamy texture.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add olive oil: Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly.
- Cook chicken pieces: Place the marinated chicken pieces in the skillet in a single layer. Avoid crowding the pan for even cooking.
- Sear and cook: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until it develops a golden brown crust.
- Flip and continue cooking: Turn each piece over using tongs and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Remove and rest: Transfer the cooked chicken to a warming plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
| Step | Time Estimate | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | 1-2 minutes | Ensure pan is hot |
| Cook first side | 4-5 minutes | Achieve golden crust |
| Cook second side | 3-4 minutes | Internal temp 165°F (74°C) |
| Rest chicken | 5 minutes | Retain juices for tenderness |
Assembling the Dish
- Arrange chicken: Place the rested chicken pieces on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Drizzle aioli: Generously spoon or drizzle the creamy garlic aioli sauce over the chicken. Use about 2 tablespoons per serving for balanced flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives to add color and a fresh herbal note.
- Add lemon wedges: Place lemon wedges around the platter to offer a zesty citrus lift.
- Serve: Present with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices and a crisp mixed greens or arugula salad on the side.
Tip: For the best presentation and flavor, serve the chicken aioli immediately after assembling while the chicken is still warm and the aioli is cool and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy Chicken Aioli at its best, we recommend serving it with accompaniments that enhance the creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken texture. Here are several flavorful options to elevate your meal:
- Crusty Bread or Toasted Baguette
The perfect choice for scooping up the rich aioli. Serve warm slices alongside the chicken to balance the dish’s garlic-forward flavor with a crunchy, mellow base.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges
Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens the dish and complements the smoky paprika seasoning on the chicken.
- Mixed Greens or Arugula Salad
A light peppery salad dressed with olive oil and lemon pairs wonderfully. The freshness cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious bite every time.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Simple sides like asparagus, green beans, or roasted carrots add color and nutrition, while their mild sweetness pairs well with the savory aioli.
- Mediterranean Sides
Consider serving with olives, feta cheese, or a quinoa pilaf to keep the Mediterranean theme glowing.
Use the table below for a quick reference of ideal pairings:
| Serving Suggestion | Purpose/Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty Bread/Toasted Baguette | Texture contrast, scoop vehicle | Warm before serving |
| Fresh Lemon Wedges | Brightens, adds acidity | Serve on side for optional use |
| Mixed Greens/Arugula Salad | Lightness and peppery freshness | Dress simply with olive oil and lemon |
| Steamed/Roasted Veggies | Adds color, balances richness | Season lightly with salt and pepper |
| Mediterranean Sides | Completes flavor profile | Olives, feta, quinoa pilaf recommended |
For plating, arrange the tender chicken pieces on a large platter, then lavishly drizzle the garlic aioli sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and the lemon wedges to create an inviting and vibrant presentation.
As we serve, remember that the creamy aioli can also act as a dip on the side, allowing guests to control the flavor intensity. This flexibility makes Chicken Aioli perfect for both casual family dinners and more refined gatherings.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures our Chicken Aioli stays fresh and flavorful for later enjoyment. Follow these guidelines to maintain the dish’s quality:
Storing Cooked Chicken Aioli
- Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.
- Place chicken and aioli in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent odors from other foods.
- Refrigerate at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Use within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety.
Freezing Guidelines
Freezing is ideal for long-term storage but avoid freezing the aioli separately as its texture can change.
| Storage Type | Maximum Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken Aioli (Refrigerated) | 3 to 4 days | Keep in airtight container |
| Cooked Chicken Aioli (Frozen) | Up to 2 months | Store in freezer-safe container |
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw frozen chicken aioli in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to prevent drying out the chicken.
- Add a spoonful of reserved aioli or fresh aioli after reheating to restore creaminess.
- Avoid microwaving directly with aioli to maintain sauce texture and flavor.
Tips to Maintain Aioli Quality
- Store unused aioli separately in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Before serving leftover chicken aioli, mix the sauce well to re-emulsify the garlic-rich dressing.
- Keep lemon wedges and fresh herbs separate until serving to retain freshness.
“Proper storage is key to keeping our Chicken Aioli Recipe tasting just like fresh from the skillet.”
By following these Storage Tips we can enjoy our flavorful chicken aioli safely and deliciously on another day.
Conclusion
Chicken aioli brings a perfect balance of bold flavors and creamy texture that elevates any meal. Its straightforward preparation means we can enjoy a gourmet-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether for a quick dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe fits seamlessly into our culinary routine.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a versatile addition to our recipe collection that never disappoints. Trying it out will surely make chicken aioli one of our go-to dishes for flavorful and satisfying meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chicken aioli?
Chicken aioli is a Mediterranean dish featuring tender chicken served with a creamy garlic aioli sauce, combining simple, fresh ingredients for a flavorful meal.
What ingredients do I need for chicken aioli?
You’ll need boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lemon juice, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and extra virgin olive oil.
How do I prepare the aioli sauce?
Mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper together, then whisk until smooth and refrigerate to blend flavors.
What equipment is required to make chicken aioli?
Essential tools include a cutting board, chef’s knife, mixing bowls, a whisk or fork, a frying pan or skillet, and measuring spoons or cups.
How should I cook the chicken for this dish?
Cook marinated chicken pieces in a preheated skillet with olive oil, searing each side for 4-5 minutes until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I serve chicken aioli with sides?
Yes, it pairs well with crusty bread, lemon wedges, mixed greens or arugula salad, steamed or roasted vegetables, and Mediterranean sides like olives and feta.
How do I store leftover chicken aioli?
Refrigerate in an airtight container after cooling, use within 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months (avoid freezing aioli separately).
What is the best way to reheat chicken aioli?
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat in a skillet to preserve the chicken’s juiciness and the aioli’s flavor.
Is chicken aioli suitable for beginners to cook?
Yes! The recipe uses everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks at all skill levels.
What occasions is chicken aioli good for?
It’s ideal for quick weeknight dinners and special gatherings, offering a tasty, elegant dish with minimal effort.