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
Scale
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.
