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If you’re craving a dish that brings together vibrant greens, tender chicken, and a luscious garlic-infused creaminess, you have to try this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of fresh broccoli florets, juicy chicken pieces, and wilted spinach, all enveloped in a creamy sauce bursting with garlic and melted mozzarella. Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, this recipe turns a handful of simple ingredients into a weeknight masterpiece that feels both comforting and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the foundation of this dish. Each component plays a special role—whether it’s the bold garlic aroma, the fresh crunch of broccoli, or the creamy, cheesy finish that makes this recipe so memorable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect tenderness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and ensures everything sizzles beautifully without sticking.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A fragrant blend that brings warmth and a hint of herbaceous depth to the chicken.
- Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): The star flavor that infuses the entire dish with its irresistible aroma and savory punch.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds vibrant green color, crunch, and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes (½ cup, halved): Provide a pop of juiciness and a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups): Wilts gently to add a mild, slightly sweet taste and nutritious greens.
- Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts perfectly on top for a gooey, comforting finish.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Creates an indulgent and silky sauce that ties everything together.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every flavor.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning those succulent pieces of chicken with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor before it even hits the pan. Don’t rush it—letting the seasoning sit on the chicken for a minute or two helps it absorb those lovely herb notes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes so it can develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. After about 5 to 7 minutes, when the chicken is cooked through and juicy, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. This step locks in that satisfying cooked texture you’ll love.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet to capture all those lovely browned bits left behind by the chicken. Toss in your minced garlic and let it cook just 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick burst releases the garlic’s signature aroma without burning it. Next, add the broccoli florets and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, slightly tender but still crisp. Finally, stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to bring out their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to reunite the star players. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the fresh spinach next, stirring gently until it wilts down, which should only take a minute or two. This step brightens the dish with vibrant greens and adds a tender, leafy texture that complements the crunchier broccoli.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts completely and melds with the vegetables and chicken, creating a dreamy creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and let it melt into a bubbling, gooey blanket that makes the dish totally irresistible. This is where the magic happens—the creaminess balances the garlic and herbs while binding all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Give your creation a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot straight from the skillet and prepare for those delicious compliments from everyone at the table. This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe is exactly the kind of meal that feels homemade but special enough to share.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and vibrant finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a burst of color and a subtle herbal fragrance that complements the garlic chicken beautifully. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a silky sheen and enhance the flavors.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy steamed rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even creamy polenta. If you want a lighter pairing, a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cream cheese sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish over whole wheat pasta or cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition. You can also spoon it into warm pita pockets or wrap it in tortilla wraps for a portable option that’s perfect for lunchboxes. No matter how you plate it, this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well, making it perfect for meal prep or quick dinners on busy nights.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the creamy texture and fresh flavors.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up and restore its creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli and spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in veggies like zucchini, kale, or bell peppers depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times so everything stays tender and vibrant.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe naturally contains no gluten ingredients, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can make dairy-free adjustments by substituting the cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Just keep in mind that the sauce texture may vary slightly.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
This recipe isn’t spicy by default, but adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic is a great way to boost the heat without overpowering the savory flavors.
What’s the best way to cut the chicken for this recipe?
Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures quick, even cooking and makes it easy to enjoy every forkful balanced with veggies and sauce.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe enough—its simplicity and rich flavors make it a true weeknight winner. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself coming back to its creamy, garlicky goodness again and again. So grab those ingredients and get cooking. Your taste buds are in for a delicious treat!
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Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A quick and creamy garlic chicken skillet bursting with tender broccoli, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all combined with melted cream cheese and mozzarella for a comforting, flavorful meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
Vegetables & Cheese
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Then add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their sweetness.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the fresh spinach. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Make It Creamy: Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts completely, coating all ingredients in a creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt, either by covering the pan briefly or letting residual heat do the work.
- Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste your creamy garlic chicken skillet and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, enjoying this quick, nutritious, and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best pungent and aromatic flavor.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Parmesan for variation.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil based on your preference for richness.
- For a low-carb option, avoid adding any sides like rice or pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
