Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

One-pan cheesy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is a delightful dish that can be whipped up in under 20 minutes. This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. It stands out for its rich flavors, simple preparation, and healthy ingredients, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a quick yet nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Meal Prep: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli and spinach, this dish supports a balanced diet.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over zoodles or pasta for a complete meal that suits your taste preferences.
• Keto-Friendly Delight: This low-carb recipe makes it ideal for those following a keto diet without sacrificing flavor.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows you to cook all ingredients evenly in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting chicken and vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking of the chicken pieces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For Flavoring

• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt (or more to taste)

For Vegetables

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (chopped in half)
• 1 cup spinach

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup mozzarella (shredded)
• 4 oz cream cheese

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces of approximately equal size.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes until they are fully cooked.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables

Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and broccoli into the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Step 6: Add Greens and Cheese

Next, add the spinach, shredded cheese, and cream cheese.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Stir well to combine all ingredients. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheeses are melted and everything is well blended.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Serving Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavors while keeping the meal balanced.

With Zoodles

• Zoodles are a healthy alternative to pasta, adding a fresh crunch that complements the garlic chicken.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving on rice provides a filling base that soaks up the delicious sauce from the garlic chicken.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add color and an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

As Part of a Salad

• Create a salad bowl by adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado alongside the garlic chicken for a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

To make your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach even better, follow these tips. They will ensure you achieve great flavors and textures every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and spinach enhance flavor compared to frozen options, making your dish taste vibrant.

• Cook Chicken Evenly: Cut chicken breasts into uniform pieces for even cooking, ensuring every bite is tender.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.

• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep broccoli bright green and tender by cooking just until it’s fork-tender; overcooking can lead to mushiness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb substitute for traditional rice that adds a subtle flavor without weighing down the dish.

2. Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery and garlicky, this side perfectly complements the main dish’s flavors.

3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until crispy adds color and crunch alongside your chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that offers nutty flavors; mix in some veggies for added freshness.

5. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide sweetness that balances out the savory garlic chicken.

6. Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce of the garlic chicken while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• chicken pieces: Cutting the chicken into uneven sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are roughly the same size for consistent results.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking broccoli and spinach too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time to maintain their texture and nutrients.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Skipping cheese integration: Not allowing the cheeses to melt together can affect the creaminess of the dish. Stir well to achieve that perfect cheesy blend.
• Rushing cooking times: Trying to cook everything too quickly can lead to undercooked chicken or vegetables. Follow the timing closely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach?

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a delicious one-pan meal that features tender chicken cooked with garlic, broccoli, and spinach in a creamy sauce.

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach?

This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I customize this Garlic Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap mozzarella cheese for another type if desired.

Is Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach healthy?

Yes! This dish is low in calories while being rich in protein and nutrients from the veggies, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.

What should I serve with Garlic Chicken?

Serve it alongside zoodles (zucchini noodles) or whole-grain pasta for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily customize it according to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!