Sizzling Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand quick, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on flavor, and this garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach delivers a perfect balance.

Packed with protein and vibrant green vegetables, the dish comes together in under 30 minutes.

Tender chicken sizzles with aromatic garlic, creating a mouthwatering foundation for the nutrient-rich greens.

Each bite promises a harmonious blend of savory and fresh flavors that will satisfy your hunger.

The combination of broccoli and spinach adds a delightful crunch and earthy undertones to the succulent chicken.

Healthy eating never tasted so good, with this simple yet impressive recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

You’ll want to add this to your regular rotation of go-to dinners.

Why Ultimate Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Is a Winner

• This recipe offers a speedy meal solution that gets delicious food on the table in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Packed with lean protein from chicken, and loaded with green vegetables like broccoli and spinach, this dish delivers a nutritious punch that supports healthy eating goals.
• Home cooks can personalize this recipe by adding different herbs, swapping proteins, or adjusting seasonings to match their taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Minimal cleanup and straightforward cooking technique make this meal a dream for anyone wanting to reduce kitchen mess and cooking complexity.

Garlic Chicken Ingredient Rundown

• Chicken Breast: A lean and versatile protein that provides a tender and delicious base for the dish.

• Broccoli Florets, Spinach Leaves: Fresh green vegetables that add nutrition, color, and a crisp texture to the meal.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps cook the chicken and adds a smooth, rich flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: A pungent and aromatic ingredient that provides depth and intensity to the overall taste.
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid that helps cook the broccoli and creates a light, savory sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: A salty and tangy cheese that adds a delicious finish and creamy texture.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors of the entire dish.

Tools for Flavorful Garlic Chicken Night

• Large Pan: Essential for cooking chicken, broccoli, and spinach in one versatile vessel.
• Cutting Board: Perfect for cubing chicken and preparing ingredients safely.
• Chef’s Knife: Sharp tool for precise chopping of chicken, garlic, and vegetables.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring ingredients and preventing sticking.
• Measuring Spoons: Helpful for adding precise amounts of salt and pepper.
• Cheese Grater: Ideal for freshly grating Parmesan cheese over the dish.

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Veggies

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and spreads smoothly across the pan.

Step 2: Transform Chicken Into Golden Bites

Add cubed chicken breast to the hot pan, allowing each piece to develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior by cooking evenly on all sides.

Step 3: Release Aromatic Garlic Magic

Introduce minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to prevent burning and let the fragrant essence permeate the chicken.

Step 4: Steam Green Goodness

• Broccoli florets
• Chicken broth

Cover the skillet and let the ingredients simmer gently, transforming the broccoli into tender, vibrant green morsels.

Step 5: Embrace Leafy Greens

Fold spinach leaves into the mixture, watching them gracefully wilt and blend with the chicken and broccoli.

Step 6: Create Flavor Harmony

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of salt
• Cracked black pepper

Stir thoroughly to marry all flavors and serve immediately while piping hot.

Top Tips for Ultimate Garlic Chicken

• Crush garlic cloves instead of mincing to release more intense, aromatic oils into the dish.
• Pat chicken pieces dry before cooking to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior and retain moisture.
• Keep broccoli slightly crisp by avoiding overcooking, which preserves vitamins and maintains vibrant green color.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein and faster cooking time.
• Chop vegetables and chicken in advance to reduce overall cooking time and streamline the cooking process.

Variations on Garlic Chicken with Broccoli

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version that maintains the same delicious garlic flavor and nutritional profile.
• Vegetarian Tofu Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu cubes, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based protein alternative.
• Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Remove the Parmesan cheese or replace with a full-fat cheese like aged cheddar, and increase olive oil content to boost fat percentage for ketogenic dieters.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Add fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary to enhance the flavor profile while keeping the core recipe structure intact.

Ways to Serve Garlic Chicken with Spinach

• Cozy Dinner Companion: Pair this garlic chicken with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious pan juices.
• Mediterranean Style Plate: Serve alongside warm pita bread or crusty sourdough to complement the herb and garlic flavors.
• Quick Protein Power Bowl: Layer the chicken and vegetables over mixed greens for a light, nutritious meal that’s packed with protein and greens.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the dish’s fresh, garlic-forward profile.

Storage for Ultimate Garlic Chicken Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the chicken and vegetables separate from any remaining sauce.
• Transfer cooled chicken and vegetables to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle with a few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this garlic chicken dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it convenient for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

• Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli and spinach work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pan and adjust cooking time slightly. Thawed frozen vegetables will cook faster than fresh ones.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-packed?

To increase protein, you can add extra chicken, include some white beans, or top the dish with a few hard-boiled eggs. Another option is to sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese for extra protein boost.

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

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4.9 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach delivers a protein-packed meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Herb-infused chicken nestles alongside crisp vegetables, creating a nutritious plate that satisfies hunger and delights palates.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken breast, cubed

Vegetables:

• 1 cup (240 ml) broccoli florets
• 1 cup (240 ml) spinach leaves

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature until shimmering and fragrant.
2. Introduce cubed chicken to the pan, searing each piece until golden brown and creating a crispy exterior, approximately 4-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning and releasing its aromatic essence throughout the pan.
4. Gently cascade broccoli florets into the skillet, immediately pour chicken broth, then reduce heat and cover, allowing vegetables to steam and tenderize for 4-6 minutes.
5. Fold fresh spinach leaves into the mixture, watching them gracefully wilt and integrate with the chicken and broccoli within 1-2 minutes.
6. Elevate the dish’s flavor profile by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then season with a delicate balance of salt and cracked black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
7. Transfer the vibrant, aromatic chicken and vegetable medley to serving plates, ensuring each portion receives an equal distribution of ingredients and garnish.

Notes

• Choose chicken breasts with even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots.
• Crush garlic just before adding to maximize its aromatic flavor and health benefits.
• Pat chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
• Cut broccoli florets into similar sizes for consistent cooking and appealing presentation.
• Low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt intake while maintaining rich flavor.
• For dairy-free version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or omit cheese entirely.
• Quickly wilt spinach to retain vibrant green color and prevent nutrient loss.
• Using fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the dish’s overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg