Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

by
Spread the love

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is the perfect choice! This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and rich garlicky flavor, making it a great weeknight dinner option. Plus, it’s easy to make in under 30 minutes!

The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and nutrient-rich spinach tossed in a savory garlic sauce will have you making this recipe over and over again. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients.

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika

For the Garlic Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water to thicken)

Vegetables and Additional Ingredients

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have everything, let’s start cooking!

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Mince the garlic and cut the broccoli into small florets.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well.
  4. Add the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables

  1. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  2. Stir in the spinach and cook for another minute until wilted.

Step 5: Combining Everything Together

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together in the garlic sauce.
  2. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken

Choosing the Best Chicken

Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the juiciest results.

How to Get the Perfect Garlic Flavor

Sauté garlic on low heat for a few seconds—this prevents it from burning and keeps the flavor rich.

The Secret to Crisp-Tender Broccoli and Spinach

Cook broccoli briefly to retain crunch and color. Add spinach last to avoid overcooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Make It Spicier

Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for more heat.

Make It Creamy

Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream for a rich, creamy garlic sauce.

Make It Vegan

Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What to Serve with Garlic Chicken

Here are some delicious pairings:

  • Steamed Rice – A classic, simple side.
  • Quinoa – A great high-protein option.
  • Garlic Bread – Because extra garlic is always a good idea!
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Adds a touch of sweetness.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Storing

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with garlicky goodness. Try it out and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli and spinach?

Yes! Just thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook everything in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

4. How do I prevent garlic from burning?

Cook garlic on low heat for 30 seconds and stir constantly to avoid burning.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots would be great additions.