Garlic Chicken With Broccoli And Spinach Recipe

Golden Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

Succulent chicken breasts dance with vibrant greens in this garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach recipe that promises a burst of flavor.

Tender pieces of meat mingle with crisp vegetables, creating a nutritious and delightful meal.

The robust garlic infuses every bite with aromatic warmth and depth.

Simple ingredients come together in a harmonious blend that satisfies hunger and delights the palate.

Fresh broccoli and spinach add vibrant color and essential nutrients to the dish.

Home cooks will love how quickly this meal comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Savor every forkful of this wholesome and delicious culinary creation that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Standout Flavors in Garlic Chicken with Veggies

  • Chop chicken into uniform pieces for consistent cooking, making preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Blend of Italian seasoning, garlic, and creamy cheeses create a mouthwatering combination that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet-style dish.
  • Packed with protein from chicken, loaded with green vegetables like broccoli and spinach, providing a balanced and wholesome meal that supports healthy eating goals.
  • Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-pan recipe that brings together proteins, vegetables, and cheesy goodness in one delightful cooking process.

What Goes into Garlic Chicken with Spinach

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean protein that serves as the primary component of the dish.
Seasonings:
  • Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: A blend of herbs and spices that adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile of the chicken.
  • Minced Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a rich, pungent flavor and classic garlic essence to the dish.
Vegetables:
  • Broccoli Florets: Nutrient-dense green vegetable that adds texture and nutritional value to the recipe.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that contribute a burst of color and fresh flavor.
  • Spinach: Leafy green that brings additional nutrients and a soft texture to the dish.
Dairy Components:
  • Shredded Mozzarella: Mild, stretchy cheese that melts smoothly and creates a creamy element.
  • Cream Cheese: Rich and tangy dairy product that helps develop a luscious, creamy sauce.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Healthy cooking oil used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that adds a fresh finish and visual appeal to the final dish.

Steps to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli

Step 1: Slice Chicken Chunks

Grab chicken breasts and slice them into uniform bite-sized pieces.

Making each piece similar in size ensures consistent cooking throughout the dish.

Step 2: Heat and Sear Chicken

Pour olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat.

When the oil starts to shimmer, add chicken pieces.

Cook while stirring occasionally until the meat turns golden and loses its pink color, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 3: Enhance with Seasonings

Sprinkle the chicken with:
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir thoroughly to coat each chicken piece evenly with the flavorful seasonings.

Step 4: Awaken Garlic Flavors

Introduce minced garlic to the skillet and cook alongside chicken for about one minute.

Watch carefully to prevent burning and allow the garlic to release its aromatic essence.

Step 5: Incorporate Colorful Vegetables

Add to the skillet:
  • Broccoli florets
  • Halved cherry tomatoes

Let vegetables cook with chicken for roughly 5 minutes until broccoli becomes tender and tomatoes soften.

Step 6: Create Creamy Cheese Blend

Introduce to the skillet:
  • Spinach
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Cream cheese

Stir continuously until cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, rich sauce that coats chicken and vegetables.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove skillet from heat.

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish.

Serve hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Simple Tips for Juicy Chicken Dinners

  • Cut chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and prevent some parts from being over or undercooked.
  • Add minced garlic carefully and quickly, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release maximum flavor without turning bitter.
  • Stir mozzarella and cream cheese gently over low heat to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats chicken and vegetables evenly without clumping.
  • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley right before serving to add a vibrant color and bright, fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish's taste profile.
  • Maintain medium heat throughout cooking to ensure chicken remains juicy, vegetables stay crisp, and no ingredients burn or become rubbery.

Storage Instructions for Chicken and Veggies

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer cooled chicken and vegetable mixture to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.
  • Warm skillet over medium-low heat. Add small splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. Gently stir chicken and vegetables, cooking until heated through. Add extra cheese if mixture looks dry. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

What to Pair with Garlic Chicken Meals

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the rich, creamy cheese and complement the garlic's intensity.
  • Serve with Crusty Bread: Grab a fresh baguette or rustic sourdough to soak up the delicious cheese sauce and add a satisfying textural contrast to the tender chicken.
  • Match with Herb-Infused Quinoa: Prepare light, fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs like thyme or basil to provide a nutritious and complementary base that enhances the dish's flavors.
  • Create a Zesty Side Salad: Whip up a quick green salad with mixed lettuce, cucumber, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate and balance the creamy, rich main course.

Tasty Add-Ons for Garlic Chicken Bowls

  • Low-Carb Veggie Swap: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian protein option. Use cauliflower instead of broccoli to reduce carbohydrate content and maintain similar texture.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute mozzarella and cream cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut cream for added creaminess without traditional dairy products.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Increase healthy fats by using extra olive oil or adding butter. Select full-fat cream cheese and replace cherry tomatoes with lower-carb bell peppers to maintain ketogenic macronutrient ratios.
  • Mediterranean Herb Remix: Enhance seasoning with fresh oregano, basil, and thyme. Include kalamata olives and swap mozzarella for crumbled feta cheese to create a Greek-inspired flavor profile.

FAQs

  • Is this dish low-carb friendly?

Yes, this garlic chicken recipe is naturally low-carb, packed with protein from chicken and nutrition from vegetables like broccoli and spinach. It’s perfect for those following ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diets.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and cream cheese work wonderfully, you can substitute with cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for different flavor profiles. Just ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

  • How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

To boost protein, consider adding extra chicken, incorporating grilled tofu, or sprinkling some additional cheese. You could also include nuts like almonds or pine nuts for added protein and crunch.

  • What if I want to reduce the fat content?

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese, reduce the amount of cheese, choose skinless chicken breast, and use a minimal amount of olive oil when cooking. This helps maintain flavor while cutting down on calories.

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Garlic Chicken With Broccoli And Spinach Recipe

Garlic Chicken With Broccoli And Spinach Recipe


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4.6 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic chicken dances with crisp broccoli and tender spinach in this quick Mediterranean-inspired dinner. Packed with protein and green goodness, you’ll savor each flavorful bite of this easy weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 lb (0.45 kg) chicken breasts

Vegetables and Seasonings:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking and Dairy Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized chunks to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent uneven texture.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature (375°F). Add chicken pieces and cook approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring intermittently until meat turns opaque and loses pink coloration.
  3. Generously season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly mix to distribute spices evenly across meat surfaces.
  4. Introduce minced garlic into skillet, sautéing for 45-60 seconds until aromatic without burning. Stir continuously to prevent scorching.
  5. Incorporate broccoli florets and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, allowing vegetables to soften and develop slight caramelization while maintaining crisp texture.
  6. Gently fold spinach, mozzarella, and cream cheese into skillet. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy coating over chicken and vegetables.
  7. Remove skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, providing a vibrant herbal note and visual appeal. Serve immediately while sauce remains warm and glossy.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken pieces are uniformly cut to guarantee even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
  • Monitor garlic closely during sautéing to avoid burning, which can create a bitter taste and ruin the dish’s delicate flavor profile.
  • Consider low-carb adaptations by replacing cherry tomatoes with bell peppers and serving over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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