Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are cooked with fresh vegetables and melty cheese, creating a comforting dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt, or more to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces of approximately equal size for even cooking.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
3. Step 3: Season the cooked chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to coat evenly.
4. Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to combine.
5. Step 5: Stir in the chopped cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets. Cook for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant.
6. Step 6: Add the spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese to the skillet.
7. Step 7: Stir everything well, cooking for 2 more minutes until the cheeses melt and the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
8. Step 8: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or milk when adding the cream cheese.
• Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green texture.
• Use smoked mozzarella instead of regular for a subtle smoky flavor.
• If you like heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw it slightly and drain any excess water before adding to the skillet to avoid making the dish watery.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This dish reheats well and provides a balanced meal. Store in portioned containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 139 reviews

This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dish combining tender chicken breasts sautéed with garlic, fresh broccoli, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and creamy cheeses. It’s a quick and easy meal packed with protein and veggies, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt or more to taste

Vegetables

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
• 1 cup fresh spinach

Cheeses and Oil

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces of approximately equal size to ensure even cooking.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
3. Season Chicken: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken, stirring well to coat the pieces evenly.
4. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
5. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the chopped cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets into the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp.
6. Add Spinach and Cheeses: Add the fresh spinach along with shredded mozzarella and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
7. Finish Cooking: Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the cheeses melt completely and everything is well blended, creating a creamy sauce.
8. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred.
• Adjust salt according to taste, especially if using salted cheese.
• For added richness, consider a splash of chicken broth or white wine when cooking vegetables.
• Ensure not to overcook the spinach to keep it vibrant and tender.

Keywords: garlic chicken, chicken with broccoli, creamy chicken recipe, spinach chicken, healthy chicken dinner, quick chicken skillet, Italian seasoning chicken