If you’re craving something quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender pieces of chicken join forces with vibrant broccoli florets and fresh baby spinach, all infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together seamlessly to create a meal that’s as balanced in nutrition as it is in taste. Each one plays a crucial role, from the earthy richness of chicken to the crisp freshness of broccoli and spinach that add texture and color to your plate.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing lean, tender bites that soak up all the garlicky goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds healthy fat and helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic flavor that’s the heart of this dish.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Offers a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color, loaded with nutrients.
- 3 cups baby spinach: Wilts quickly adding a fresh, leafy layer of texture and iron-rich goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to keep things lively.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water: Used to steam the broccoli, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional): A splash of brightness to elevate the whole dish.
- Grated Parmesan for garnish (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish that’s truly irresistible.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then lay them out in the skillet. This step is all about building flavor, so let the chicken develop a beautiful golden-brown crust by cooking undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside while we move on to the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Garlic cooks quickly and can become bitter if overdone, so sauté it just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This brief step releases its sweet, pungent aroma that will flavor every bite of the dish.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
Add your fresh broccoli florets along with the chicken broth or water to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. This gentle steaming keeps the broccoli tender-crisp — perfectly cooked with a vibrant color and a slight bite that adds so much texture contrast to the chicken.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Remove the lid and stir in the baby spinach. It will wilt down swiftly, just about a minute, folding seamlessly into the broccoli. This quick toss ensures the spinach maintains its bright green hue and fresh flavor, balancing the richness of the chicken and garlic.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and give everything a good toss to blend all those delicious flavors together. If you’re using red pepper flakes, sprinkle them in now, along with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of acidity that wakes up each ingredient. Serve hot and garnish with Parmesan for an optional cheesy touch that feels indulgent but stays light.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty depth and melts ever so slightly over the warm chicken and veggies. A few red pepper flakes bring color and a hint of heat, or a wedge of lemon on the side offers guests a chance to customize with a fresh squeeze of citrus brightness.
Side Dishes
This garlic chicken dish is wonderfully flexible. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa to soak up all those flavorful juices. For pasta lovers, tossing it with your favorite noodles transforms it into a hearty dinner. Roasted potatoes or garlic bread also make fantastic accompaniments to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe in meal prep bowls for a grab-and-go lunch packed with color and nutrients. Or pile it onto crisp lettuce leaves and wrap it up for a fresh, hand-held dinner option. It’s equally stunning when served family-style right from the skillet—encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the conversation around this vibrant dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier second meal. Eat within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness and texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the delicate texture of the chicken and vegetables.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave on a medium power setting. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in or add veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything tender and vibrant.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as prepared, making it a great choice for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure any broth used is labeled gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Simply skip the Parmesan garnish or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to keep it allergy-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy does this dish get with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can easily adjust the amount or leave them out if you prefer a milder taste.
What is the best way to cut chicken for this recipe?
Cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces ensures quick, even cooking and makes the dish perfect for tossing effortlessly with the vegetables and sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe truly embodies effortless weeknight cooking with its fantastic balance of flavors, textures, and colors. It’s packed with healthy ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a staple you’ll want to keep in your repertoire. Once you try it, this garlicky, savory, and vibrant dish might just become your new go-to for a nourishing and comforting meal full of love.
Print
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick and healthy stovetop recipe featuring tender chicken breast pieces sautéed with garlic, steamed broccoli, and wilted baby spinach. The dish is flavorful with the addition of olive oil, a hint of red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of lemon juice, making it a perfect low-carb, gluten-free main course ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups baby spinach
Seasonings and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and completely cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Steam Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth (or water) to the skillet. Cover with a lid and allow the broccoli to steam for 3-4 minutes until it is tender-crisp.
- Wilt Spinach: Remove the lid and stir in the baby spinach. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring, until the spinach has wilted.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Add red pepper flakes and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture if desired. Stir to combine all flavors well.
- Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if using, alongside your choice of rice, quinoa, or pasta for a more filling meal.
Notes
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta to make the dish more substantial.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or sprinkle some mozzarella cheese before serving.
