Looking for a nutritious, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please your family? Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a perfect dish for a balanced dinner. Packed with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, this recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty spinach, all infused with the rich taste of garlic.
What Makes Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach So Special?
This dish is a wholesome combination of lean protein, leafy greens, and aromatic flavors. It’s not only delicious but also health-conscious, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Here’s what you need to know about why this recipe stands out:
- High in Nutrients: Broccoli and spinach are nutrient powerhouses, rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as folate and fiber.
- Protein-Packed: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Flavorful: The garlic adds a savory depth that complements the mild flavors of the chicken and the slight bitterness of the greens.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of heat)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)
- Lemon zest (optional, for a refreshing touch)
For Serving (optional):
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- A sprinkle of parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into even pieces and seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This helps enhance the flavor and creates a nice color when cooked.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the chicken broth or water and cover with a lid. Let steam for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Add the Spinach: Remove the lid and add the fresh spinach to the pan. Stir and let it cook for about 1 minute, just until it wilts.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, mixing it with the broccoli and spinach. Cook for another minute to ensure everything is heated through and infused with the garlic flavor. Optionally, add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing hint.
- Serve Hot: Plate your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach and serve with rice or quinoa on the side for a complete meal. Finish with a touch of parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
- Adjust Seasonings: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken.
- Substitute Vegetables: You can swap broccoli for other green vegetables like asparagus or green beans if desired.
- Make it a Meal Prep Winner: This dish stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a perfect weeknight dinner option that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. It is rich in protein and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Plus, its easy preparation ensures that you’ll be serving up a wholesome meal in no time.
Try this recipe tonight and discover how simple it is to create a meal that’s both satisfying and good for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach will quickly become a favorite. Not only does it come together in less than 30 minutes, but it also delivers the delicious, satisfying flavors you crave. Enjoy this meal on busy nights or as a part of your meal prep plan for the week.
Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Serving Tips:
- Pair with a Side: This dish goes well with a variety of sides such as cooked rice, quinoa, or even a light pasta. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
- Garnish for Flavor: Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch.
- Add a Fresh Salad: For an even more balanced meal, serve a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to complement the garlic flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish while it’s fresh and hot to experience the full range of flavors and textures.
Storage Tips:
- Cool Down Properly: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and ensures it stays fresh longer.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the chicken, broccoli, and spinach into an airtight container. This will keep it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to consume it within this timeframe to maintain food safety.
- Freezing (Optional): If you want to store the dish for longer, you can freeze it. Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheating Tips: To keep the broccoli and spinach from becoming mushy, reheat on low heat with a splash of water or broth to add moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating without overcooking.
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, be sure to do so gradually to maintain the best texture and flavor.
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh broccoli and spinach? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and spinach. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the pan. Frozen vegetables may release more moisture, so you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier? To add a kick of heat to your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some sliced jalapeños while cooking the chicken. Adjust the spiciness level to your taste preference.
3. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to use other proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or turkey breast. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose. For example, shrimp will cook much quicker than chicken, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
4. How can I make this dish more filling? If you’re looking to make the dish heartier, consider serving it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or pasta. You can also add roasted sweet potatoes or a side of crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds or sesame seeds can also provide extra texture and a nutty flavor.
PrintGarlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
This one-pan Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a flavorful, healthy, and quick dinner option. Tender chicken breast is sautéed with fresh garlic, then combined with vibrant broccoli and spinach for a nutrient-packed dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or quinoa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces 2 tbsp olive oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups broccoli florets 3 cups fresh spinach leaves 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick) 1/4 cup chicken broth or water 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the broccoli and spinach. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C), about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Sauté the broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the garlic and spinach: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and spinach to the skillet with the broccoli. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Combine with chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Finish the dish: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately: Enjoy on its own or over rice, pasta, or quinoa.
Notes
Swap broccoli for asparagus or zucchini for variety. Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. To make it dairy-free, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.