Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can deliver outstanding results. It is light yet satisfying, packed with protein and vegetables, and full of bold garlic flavor without feeling heavy. This dish is ideal for weeknights when you want something nourishing but quick to prepare. I appreciate how everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup effortless. When I tested this recipe, I tried it once with chicken breasts and once with chicken thighs, and both worked beautifully, though the thighs were slightly juicier. The broccoli adds structure and bite, while the spinach melts gently into the sauce, creating a balanced and wholesome meal that feels both comforting and fresh.
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Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach – A Healthy, Flavor-Packed Skillet Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and healthy skillet meal featuring tender garlic-seasoned chicken sautéed with crisp broccoli and fresh spinach in a light, savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes, and cook until lightly golden and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in broccoli florets and chicken broth. Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Drizzle with lemon juice, stir well, and remove from heat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
- Do not overcook spinach to preserve nutrients.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast serves as the main protein, cooking quickly and absorbing the garlic-forward flavors of the dish.
Olive oil provides a healthy fat for sautéing and enhances the overall richness.
Garlic is the star ingredient, delivering bold aroma and deep savory flavor throughout the dish.
Broccoli florets add texture, color, and nutritional value while remaining slightly crisp.
Fresh spinach contributes tenderness and a mild earthy note as it wilts into the dish.
Chicken broth creates a light sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Butter adds a subtle richness that rounds out the garlic flavor.
Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the savory elements.
Salt enhances all the ingredients and ensures balanced seasoning.
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and depth.
Red pepper flakes provide optional heat for those who enjoy a slight kick.
Parmesan cheese, added at the end, offers a savory finish and extra depth.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken lightly with salt and black pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add butter. Once melted, stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Add the broccoli florets along with chicken broth, cover, and allow the broccoli to steam until tender but still vibrant.
Uncover the skillet and add the spinach, stirring gently until wilted. Return the chicken to the pan and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to reduce slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 25 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a small splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is very flexible. You can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness or add mushrooms for additional earthiness. I tested this dish with kale instead of spinach, and it worked well, though it required slightly longer cooking. For a low-carb version, serve it as written. To make it heartier, pair it with rice, quinoa, or pasta. A splash of cream can also be added at the end for a richer sauce, though the lighter version is excellent on its own.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is high in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into balanced and health-conscious meal plans. Using olive oil and lean chicken keeps the dish wholesome without sacrificing flavor.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overcook Garlic
Cook garlic briefly to avoid bitterness and preserve aroma.
Cut Chicken Evenly
Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking.
Steam Broccoli Gently
Avoid overcooking to keep its bright color and texture.
Finish with Acid
Lemon juice at the end enhances all the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It is best fresh but reheats well for short-term storage.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, unless red pepper flakes are added.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they remain juicy and flavorful.
What can I serve with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes pair well.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, zucchini or bell peppers work nicely.
How do I know the chicken is cooked?
It should reach an internal temperature of 74°C.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, omit butter and Parmesan cheese.
Does spinach release too much liquid?
No, it wilts quickly and blends into the sauce.
Can I use bottled garlic?
Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a simple yet flavorful recipe that delivers a satisfying, well-balanced meal with minimal effort. Its versatility, wholesome ingredients, and bold garlic flavor make it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and healthier dinner plans.
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