Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether served over pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice, it’s a versatile meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously fragrant sauce that elevates the dish.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from spinach and broccoli, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over your choice of rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice to suit your dietary preferences.
• Customizable Heat: Add red pepper flakes for a kick, or keep it mild for family-friendly fare.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing enough space for vegetables to sauté without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for ingredients like olive oil, chicken broth, and heavy cream to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

For the Vegetables:

• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 5 oz fresh spinach

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional:

• Red pepper flakes (for a little kick!)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken cooked! Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Now for the veggies! Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broccoli Florets

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to turn bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it along.

Step 5: Prepare Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer while stirring constantly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Heat (Optional)

If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot over rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

Serving Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that complement its rich flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty base that soaks up the creamy sauce.

With Pasta

• Pair with pasta for a comforting meal. Use fettuccine or penne to catch all the delicious sauce.

On Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb option, serve this dish on cauliflower rice. It offers a similar texture while keeping calories in check.

With Extra Parmesan

• Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and creaminess.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fresh and crunchy bite!

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those who love dipping!

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

Perfecting Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and broccoli for better flavor and nutrition.
• Sauté Garlic Carefully: Cook garlic until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure chicken is cooked through and no longer pink by using a meat thermometer (165°F).
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding cream.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your preference.
• Add Heat: For an extra kick, incorporate red pepper flakes gradually. You can always add more if needed!

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

Finding the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that pair beautifully with Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that provides a crunchy contrast and absorbs the creamy sauce well.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh and vibrant addition to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to your meal.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying side that complements the creamy chicken dish.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette brightens up the meal.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a healthy twist, serve with spiralized zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
7. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans seasoned simply can add color and crunch alongside your main dish.
8. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf brings in aromatic spices that work well with the garlic chicken flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: It’s essential to cook the chicken just until browned and cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken and vegetables properly can result in bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking for maximum taste.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: If you add spinach too soon, it may become overly wilted and lose its vibrant color. Wait until the broccoli is tender before adding the spinach for the best results.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old or stale ingredients can dull your dish’s freshness. Opt for fresh garlic, spinach, and broccoli to enhance flavors and texture.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient has a specific cooking time that affects overall doneness. Follow the directions closely to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

• You can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months.
• Place them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the dish. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables in Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli?

Yes! Feel free to swap broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans based on your preference.

How can I customize my Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli?

You can add more spices or herbs for extra flavor or include different cheeses like mozzarella or feta.

Is Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli and spinach, making it a balanced meal option.

What should I serve with Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or even over cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a lower-carb option.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices according to your preference. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its rich flavors and creamy sauce!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is a quick and nutritious meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fresh spinach in a creamy garlic sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner, offering rich flavors and hearty ingredients that everyone will love. Serve it over pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice for a versatile dining experience. With its explosion of flavors and healthy components, this recipe is sure to be a favorite at your table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 head broccoli
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned (6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until soft (3-4 minutes).
3. Add broccoli florets; cook until bright green (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in spinach until wilted (2-3 minutes).
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; simmer while stirring, then add Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; mix well to coat in sauce.
7. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
8. Serve over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 110mg