Some nights, I just want dinner on the table fast—but still crave something that tastes like I spent all day in the kitchen. That’s where this garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach comes in. It’s one of those unexpectedly satisfying meals: juicy chicken, garlicky goodness, tender greens—all in under 30 minutes.
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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
This garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is weeknight cooking at its best: quick, healthy, and ridiculously good. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and flavor that hits all the right notes. Garlic-infused chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and wilted spinach create a wholesome, balanced plate that checks every box—comforting, filling, and keto-friendly.
You can serve garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal. It’s versatile enough for picky eaters but nourishing enough for anyone watching their carbs. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
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Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach (Easy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Juicy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. A one-pan wonder for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cups fresh spinach leaves
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through (6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, heat remaining olive oil. Sauté broccoli for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Add garlic and spinach, stirring until spinach wilts and garlic is fragrant (about 2 minutes).
5. Return chicken to skillet, pour in broth, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
6. Finish with lemon juice and optional Parmesan. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Serve hot over cauliflower rice, regular rice, or pasta as desired.
Notes
Swap broccoli with green beans or asparagus if preferred.
For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan.
Add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3 days or freezer for 2 months.
Reheat gently with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
You’ll need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook fast and soak up all that garlicky olive oil. You’ll season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a little kick.
For the Vegetables
Garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach wouldn’t be complete without—you guessed it—fresh broccoli florets and a generous handful of spinach. You can swap in green beans, asparagus, or even kale, depending on what’s in your fridge.
Optional Add-ons
A splash of lemon juice brightens the whole dish. Finish with grated Parmesan for richness, or keep it dairy-free if you prefer. Want to bulk it up? Serve your garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or zoodles.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients
Slice your chicken, chop the broccoli, and mince your garlic so everything’s ready to go. This dish moves quickly, so having your mise en place set will make things easier.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Cook the seasoned chicken until golden and cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove it and set it aside so it stays juicy.
Step 3 – Sauté Garlic and Veggies
In the same pan, heat more olive oil and sauté your broccoli for 3–4 minutes until it starts to soften. Add garlic and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts and the garlic smells amazing—about 2 minutes.
Step 4 – Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in a splash of broth, and let it simmer together for 2–3 minutes. Add lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired. Garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is best served hot and fresh.
Tips for Success & Easy Variations
Want your garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach a little spicier? Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. Use chicken thighs for even more flavor, or go meatless with tofu or shrimp.
Avoid overcooking the spinach—it wilts fast. And always taste and adjust your seasonings. A little lemon zest or garlic powder can wake up the whole dish.
This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. Just cool completely and store in airtight containers for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Serving Ideas and Storage Tips
Serve garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach over steamed cauliflower rice for a satisfying low-carb meal. You can also pair it with brown rice, lentils, or even mashed potatoes if you’re not counting carbs.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist. It freezes well too—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs about Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Can I use frozen broccoli or spinach?
Yes. Thaw and drain before cooking to prevent sogginess in your garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach.
How do I make this dish dairy-free or low-carb?
Skip the Parmesan and serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb, dairy-free meal.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! Garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach holds up great in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
Garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach is one of those go-to recipes that never disappoints. It’s easy, flavorful, and full of nourishing ingredients that come together in a flash. Whether you’re short on time or just want something wholesome and satisfying, this dish will be a new favorite.
If you loved this, check out more quick and easy chicken meals for busy weeknights or try other flavor-packed chicken recipes with bold seasonings. Craving a low-carb twist? You’ll love our healthy buffalo chicken dip recipe.
And if you’re curious, here’s more on the nutritional benefits of broccoli and spinach, tips for cooking moist and flavorful chicken breast, and even how garlic boosts immune health and flavor.