This easy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is a quick, tasty meal! Tender chicken pairs perfectly with colorful veggies, making it a healthy choice the whole family will love.
You might just find yourself sneaking bites of those garlic-infused veggies! I like to serve it with rice or pasta for a filling dinner that’s both simple and satisfying. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein option. If preferred, thighs can add more flavor and moisture. For a vegetarian twist, try tofu or chickpeas instead!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives great texture. If it’s not available, you can use frozen broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly. Zucchini or green beans are nice alternatives too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in this dish. You can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture. Kale is another option; just chop it finely before adding.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder could work, but use about 1/8 teaspoon for a subtle taste.
Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, go with low-sodium chicken broth. If you prefer a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute. Water will work in a pinch but lacks depth.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting juicy, perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it! Start with medium-high heat to sear the chicken quickly, locking in those juices. Here are the steps:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if necessary to achieve a golden color.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving; this helps keep it juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have juicy chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking, so you can have a delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes! It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet nutritious and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place it over medium-high heat. Give it a minute to warm up.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with the salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink inside. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Steam the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets and the chicken broth to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it steam for about 3-4 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and just tender.
5. Add Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves into the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. If you want extra flavor, add the soy sauce and crushed red pepper flakes at this point.
7. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring as you go. Allow it to cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.
8. Final Taste Check:
Give your dish a taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. You want it to be just right!
9. Serve It Up:
Distribute the garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach onto plates. You can serve it on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli and spinach! Just remember that frozen veggies release more moisture, so you may want to reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly. Cook the frozen vegetables until heated through and tender, typically just a few extra minutes.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this dish. Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas would also work well. Just ensure that any added veggies cook through in the same amount of time; you may need to adjust steaming times for firmer veggies.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, water works just fine! However, using vegetable broth or stock will enhance the flavor. You could also use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. If you add soy sauce, be cautious about additional salt.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal a second time!
