This easy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is a quick, tasty meal that’s packed with flavors! The chicken is juicy, while the veggies add a nice crunch.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s not only yummy but also colorful? I often serve it with rice to soak up all the garlic goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. You could use thighs as a substitute for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds a nice richness. If you need a different option, avocado oil works well too. Both have high smoke points for cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic if you’re short on time. Keep in mind that fresh garlic has a stronger taste!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch. If you can’t find any, frozen broccoli works too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Spinach: Baby spinach is perfect because it wilts nicely. If you want to use kale, make sure to chop it smaller and cook it for a bit longer since it’s tougher.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to this dish. To ensure it’s juicy and never dry, follow these steps:
- Start by cutting the chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This helps the chicken brown instead of steam.
- Cook until golden brown on the outside and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C)—if you have one.
Letting the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the pan helps keep the moisture in!
Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for flavor depth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy garlic chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious meal in about 25 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell the garlic. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets into the skillet and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to start getting tender but still have a nice crispness to them. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and adds great texture!
4. Steam Everything Together:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and soy sauce, if using. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it steam for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender enough for your liking.
5. Add the Spinach and Chicken:
Next, add the fresh spinach leaves back into the skillet along with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts down.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the dish with additional salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and lemon juice for a fresh kick. Give it one last stir, then serve immediately on its own or over some steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to avoid sogginess.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love a little heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a splash of hot sauce when serving. Sriracha or chili garlic sauce would both complement the flavors nicely!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time. Cook everything and then cool it down before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating.
What Else Can I Add to the Dish?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Alternatively, try adding in some cooked quinoa or noodles for a heartier meal!
