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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature until shimmering and fragrant.
- Introduce cubed chicken to the pan, searing each piece until golden brown and creating a crispy exterior, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning and releasing its aromatic essence throughout the pan.
- 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.
- Fold fresh spinach leaves into the mixture, watching them gracefully wilt and integrate with the chicken and broccoli within 1-2 minutes.
- 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.
- 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