If you’re craving a dish that brings together vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and an irresistible garlicky aroma, you’re in for a treat with this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe. It’s a quick, wholesome meal that balances tender chicken with crisp broccoli, melty cheese, and a savory garlic punch. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy, making it one of my favorite go-to dishes to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing the essence of the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether adding texture, flavor, or a pop of color to your plate.
- Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious seasoning.
- Olive oil: For sautéing, it brings richness and helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken.
- Broccoli florets: Adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant green that brightens up the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the chicken with herbs like oregano and basil.
- Garlic cloves, minced: The star flavor that makes this recipe truly shine with its aromatic zest.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: Burst of sweetness and acidity that balances the savory elements.
- Fresh spinach: Wilts gently into the mix, adding a silky texture and nutritional boost.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into creamy pockets of gooey heaven throughout the dish.
- Cream cheese: Enriches the sauce with a smooth, velvety finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that amplify all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This is where the magic begins as the hot oil creates a golden crust on the chicken pieces, locking in moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper before adding it to the pan so every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Infusing Garlic Flavor
Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until you can smell that incredible garlic fragrance—this quick step infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma that sets it apart.
Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables
Add the broccoli florets and halved tomatoes to the skillet next. They soak up the flavors from the chicken and garlic while cooking until the broccoli turns tender but still holds a slight crunch. This balance creates a lively texture that’s so pleasing to the palate.
Step 4: Melting in the Cheeses and Spinach
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir everything together until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce that coats the chicken and veggies beautifully. This step transforms the dish into a luscious, comforting meal ready to serve immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving. A quick grating of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty touch that’s simply irresistible. These simple garnishes add freshness and visual appeal, rounding out the flavor experience.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes soak up the cheesy sauce perfectly, while a crisp side salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness. For a lower-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed quinoa.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! For a vibrant feast, serve the garlic chicken and broccoli on a bright platter surrounded by wedges of lemon or lime to add a tangy kick. You can also stuff the mixture into warm pita bread or wrap it in a tortilla for an easy, portable meal that’s perfect for lunches or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient go-to for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this recipe freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent the cheese from separating. A quick zap in the microwave works too—just cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and richness to the dish. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all the seasonings and cheeses you use don’t contain gluten. Always double-check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
To adapt this recipe for a plant-based diet, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, and use vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives. The garlic and veggies still shine beautifully in this version!
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese. This will keep the creaminess but add a slightly tangier flavor profile.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
Cook the broccoli just until tender but still crisp by watching the skillet closely and not overcooking. Adding it towards the end of cooking keeps its texture vibrant and fresh.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe as much as I do. It’s the kind of meal that feels wholesome and homey, yet special enough to share with loved ones. Give it a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly delicious it is!
Print
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Chicken with Broccoli recipe featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and melted mozzarella cheese in a garlicky, creamy sauce. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook vegetables: Add 2 cups of broccoli florets and 1 cup of halved grape or cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Incorporate spinach and cheese: Mix in 2 cups fresh spinach, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 4 ounces of cream cheese. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the cheeses are melted and creamy, coating the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken breasts for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your taste preference.
- For a lower fat version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure not to overcook broccoli to retain its crunch and nutrients.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread.
