If you are craving a vibrant, wholesome dish that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender bites of chicken marry beautifully with the fresh crunch of broccoli and the gentle earthiness of spinach, all enhanced by the robust aroma of garlic. This dish strikes the perfect balance between nutritious and downright delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe just right comes down to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from contributing flavor to adding texture and color that makes this dish so inviting.
- Chicken breasts, 1 pound: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Divided use helps to cook chicken perfectly and then to sauté the garlic and veggies.
- Salt, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors in the dish, bringing balance to each bite.
- Black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Adds a mild heat and depth without overpowering.
- Garlic cloves, 4 minced: The soul of the recipe, transforming the dish with irresistible aroma and punch.
- Broccoli florets, 2 cups: Provide a satisfying crunch and brilliant green color, along with nutritious benefits.
- Fresh spinach, 2 cups: Adds a tender, leafy contrast that wilts down beautifully.
- Chicken broth or water, ¼ cup: Used to steam the broccoli so it stays tender-crisp.
- Soy sauce or tamari, 1 tablespoon: Introduces a savory, umami note that brings the whole dish together.
- Red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon (optional): For those who crave a subtle kick of heat.
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional): A fresh squeeze that brightens and balances the rich flavors.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pieces turn golden and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm. This step ensures the chicken develops a beautiful sear while staying juicy inside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Stir-Fry Broccoli
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky fragrance. Next, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. The quick sauté allows the broccoli to retain its vibrant color and a pleasing crunch.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
Pour in the chicken broth or water and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the broccoli steam for 2 to 3 minutes, which softens it just enough to complement the chicken without losing its fresh crispness.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine Everything
Remove the lid, add the fresh spinach, and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce along with the optional red pepper flakes if you want that touch of heat. Give everything a good stir to combine and warm through evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice
Finally, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish to add a bright, fresh note that lifts all the rich flavors. Serve immediately, either by itself or over your favorite grains.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions adds not only a visual pop but an extra dimension of texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with this garlic-forward dish.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice, nutty quinoa, or even a bed of simple noodles to soak up every savory drop. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles also work beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it family-style in a large skillet for a casual, comforting vibe or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of extra soy sauce and a lemon wedge on the side to impress guests. Wrapping the cooked chicken and veggies in warm lettuce leaves for handheld bites puts a fun, fresh spin on the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the spinach and broccoli may change slightly upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth helps restore moisture. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to best preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to suit your taste and what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for the best texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, which often contains wheat. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or shrimp for a pescatarian twist. The recipe adapts wonderfully while keeping all the flavors intact.
How can I add more sauce to the dish?
If you like it saucier, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth mixed with an extra splash of soy sauce during the spinach phase, simmering briefly to thicken the flavor.
What is the best way to avoid overcooked vegetables?
Keep a close eye on the steaming step and don’t let the broccoli steam for more than 3 minutes to maintain its crisp-tender texture. Add spinach last since it wilts very quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for its ease, nutrition, and incredible flavor. It’s truly a weeknight hero meal that you can whip up anytime you want something healthy, satisfying, and bursting with garlic-infused goodness. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!
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Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and healthy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach recipe featuring tender chicken bites sautéed with fresh garlic, crisp broccoli, and wilted spinach, finished with a touch of soy sauce and lemon juice for a flavorful, low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Vegetables & Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking vegetables)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
- Steam Broccoli: Pour in chicken broth or water, then cover the skillet. Steam the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Cook Spinach: Uncover the skillet, add fresh spinach, and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add soy sauce or tamari and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and heat through.
- Add Final Touch: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve warm on its own or over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- This dish can be made with tofu or shrimp as alternatives to chicken.
- Add creaminess by stirring in a splash of coconut milk or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
