If you’re craving a comforting, wholesome weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is about to become your new go-to. Tender bites of chicken mingle with vibrant broccoli and nutritious spinach, all coated in a garlicky, lemon-kissed sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s packed with flavor, colors, and plenty of veggie power, but light enough to leave you feeling satisfied without being weighed down. With minimal prep time and just one skillet needed, you’ll love how quickly this meal makes it from stove to table.

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With this recipe, simplicity truly does shine. Each ingredient brings something vital to the final dish, from vibrant greens that brighten the plate to aromatic garlic that infuses every bite. Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach a delicious weeknight reality:

Chicken breasts: Tender, boneless, skinless pieces soak up the flavorful sauce and provide lean, satisfying protein.
Salt: A sprinkle is all it takes to bring out the natural taste of the chicken and veggies.
Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to every bite.
Olive oil: Provides a luscious base for browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic.
Garlic: Freshly minced cloves give the dish its signature, savory aroma and taste.
Broccoli florets: Bright green and crisp-tender, they add texture and color.
Fresh spinach: Wilts down beautifully, adding a nutrient boost and lovely green hue.
Chicken broth: Helps steam the broccoli and brings moisture and richness to the sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Brings a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
Lemon juice: Just a splash brings everything to life with its fresh, tangy zing.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a subtle, savory finish for cheesy fans.

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces for quick, uniform cooking. Sprinkle them evenly with salt and black pepper. This quick seasoning step ensures every bite is full of flavor right from the get-go.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces in an even layer. Allow them to cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside—you’ll bring it back soon.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

With the chicken out of the pan, turn the heat down to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. You want that gorgeous garlic aroma to bloom, but be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Cover with a lid and let it steam for 3 to 4 minutes. When the broccoli is bright green and just tender-crisp, you’re ready for the next step. The broth doesn’t just steam the veggies—it lays the foundation for a luscious sauce.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Scatter the fresh spinach over the broccoli and cover the skillet again. It looks like a lot at first, but in just 1 to 2 minutes, the spinach will wilt down beautifully, folding into the medley of greens.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected. Add red pepper flakes now if you’re using them. Stir everything together so the garlicky, lemony sauce coats every bite of chicken, broccoli, and spinach.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the skillet and sprinkle Parmesan on top if desired. This bright, cheesy finish brings Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach fully to life. Serve it up while it’s piping hot!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like a final flourish to make your dish pop. A scatter of extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh chopped parsley over the top takes this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach from everyday to elegant. For a hint of color, a few lemon zest shavings also look (and taste) divine.

Side Dishes

This garlicky, vibrant chicken skillet pairs beautifully with simple rice, fluffy quinoa, or even your favorite pasta. The sauce soaks right in, turning any grain into a feast. For a low-carb side, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

You can ladle Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach onto a large serving platter for family style meals, or serve it individually in shallow bowls so everyone gets a bit of sauce and Plenty of greens. For a twist, spoon the mixture into warm whole-grain wraps or pita pockets for a healthy on-the-go lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extras store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, so you might find yourself sneaking a forkful for an easy lunch the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach for future meals. Let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Mark the date and use within two months for best taste and texture. Freezing is especially handy if you want to meal-prep double batches.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra broth to keep everything moist and saucy. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but stirring halfway through helps keep the chicken juicy and the greens tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are equally delicious here. Just use boneless, skinless thighs and cook until fully done, adjusting the time as needed.

Is this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check your chicken broth to make sure it doesn’t contain any unexpected additives.

What’s the best way to cut the chicken evenly?

For uniform pieces, place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, trim any excess fat, and cut across the grain into bite-sized cubes. Starting with partially frozen chicken can make slicing even easier.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas would be tasty additions alongside the broccoli and spinach. Just keep the total quantity about the same so the skillet isn’t overcrowded.

Is there a way to make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach creamy?

For a richer version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or even a dollop of cream cheese at the end. It blends right in and gives the sauce a luscious, velvety finish without overpowering the bright lemon and garlic flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe is proof that healthy, vibrant meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. If you’re looking for a dinner that’s packed with flavor and easy enough for any night of the week, this dish absolutely delivers. Give it a try—you might just find yourself adding it into your regular rotation!

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe is a quick and delicious stovetop meal that combines tender chicken with vibrant greens and zesty flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Vegetables:

4 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup chicken broth

Additional:

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add chicken, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Vegetables: Reduce heat, add garlic to the skillet, followed by broccoli and chicken broth. Steam until broccoli is tender-crisp. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, add red pepper flakes if desired. Finish with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.