Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Here’s a full recipe for a flavorful and healthy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach — a quick one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s high in protein, full of greens, and can be served over rice, pasta, or on its own.

🍗 Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Simple. Garlicky. Nutritious. Ready in 30 minutes.

✅ Ingredients (Serves 4)

Protein & Veg:

• 1½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2–3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 3–4 cups fresh spinach (baby spinach works best)

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or a splash of vinegar (for brightness)

Optional Extras:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (adds umami and richness)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or chicken broth (for depth)

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta, for serving

🔪 Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1–2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

• Sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Stir occasionally so all sides brown.

• Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic & Broccoli

• In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon olive oil.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it).

• Add the broccoli florets, stir, and cook for 4–5 minutes, until just tender. If using fresh broccoli and it’s too firm, splash in 2 tbsp water and cover for a minute to steam.

3. Add Spinach & Combine

• Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir gently. It will wilt quickly.

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan.

• Drizzle with lemon juice, and add red pepper flakes, Parmesan, or a splash of soy sauce if using.

• Stir everything together for 1–2 minutes until heated through and fully combined.

4. Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Serve hot over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or enjoy on its own for a low-carb meal.

🔄 Variations

• Creamy version: Add ¼ cup cream or cream cheese after sautéing garlic, and let it melt before adding the veggies and chicken.

• Asian twist: Use sesame oil + soy sauce + a bit of honey or hoisin sauce.

• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for more variety.

🧊 Storage

• Fridge: Keeps 3–4 days in airtight container.

• Freezer: Can be frozen, though spinach may release liquid when reheated.

Would you like a sheet pan version, a low-sodium option, or to make this into a garlic chicken pasta dish?