This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a delicious one-pan dish that’s healthy, quick, and full of flavor. Tender chunks of chicken breast are cooked in garlic and lemon, tossed with bright green broccoli and wilted spinach, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or whenever you’re craving something both hearty and nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs (about 3 medium) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
For the Veggies and Sauce:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing vegetables)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 cups fresh spinach
¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Garlic and Broccoli:
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp more oil or butter.
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
Add the broccoli florets and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Steam the Broccoli:
Pour in ¼ cup chicken broth (or water) to help steam and soften the broccoli.
Cover the pan with a lid and steam for 3–4 minutes, or until broccoli is tender but still bright green and crisp.
4. Add Spinach and Return Chicken:
Remove the lid and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring until spinach is wilted.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine and heat through.
5. Finish the Dish:
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and squeeze lemon juice over the dish for a fresh kick.
Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy!
️ Serving Suggestions
This garlic chicken and veggie skillet is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to enjoy it:
Over Grains: Serve over cooked brown rice, quinoa, couscous, or orzo for a filling meal.
With Pasta: Toss it with penne, spaghetti, or even a garlic butter pasta base.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or enjoy it as is.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the garlicky, lemony flavors.
Wrap It Up: Use it as a filling in whole-wheat wraps, tortillas, or pita pockets for lunch.
Tips & Variations
Add more vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Creamy version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a rich twist.
Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken; just skip the initial sauté step.
Cheese swaps: Use shredded mozzarella, Asiago, or even a bit of crumbled feta for a different flavor profile.
Spice it up: Add ½ tsp of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freeze: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicier and add great flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly (about 8–10 minutes).
What if I only have frozen vegetables?
No problem! You can use frozen broccoli or even frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain spinach well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Is Parmesan necessary?
No, but it adds depth and saltiness. You can leave it out or replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes. Omit the chicken and use canned chickpeas or tofu instead. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)
(Based on 4 servings, without Parmesan cheese and served alone)
Calories: 285
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Note: Serving with grains or potatoes will increase carbs and calories.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is your go-to for a quick, wholesome, and flavorful dinner. With only one pan and simple ingredients, it’s a meal you can whip up any night of the week without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Perfect for busy families, fitness-friendly lifestyles, or anyone who wants something fresh and satisfying!
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