If you’re looking for a meal that’s healthy, hearty, and made in one pan—this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is going to be your new favorite. Juicy chicken bites, crisp-tender broccoli, and wilted spinach are tossed in a garlicky butter sauce that’s both simple and irresistible.
This dish is inspired by the quick dinners my mom would throw together during busy weeks—no fancy ingredients, just fresh veggies, lean protein, and bold garlic flavor that made the house smell heavenly.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
- Quick & easy: Ready in 30 minutes flat.
- Low-carb & protein-rich: Perfect for healthy eating or meal prep.
- Versatile: Great with rice, quinoa, or pasta.
- One skillet: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Table of Contents
🧄 Ingredients
For the Chicken & Veggies:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Optional Add-Ons:
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
- In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in broccoli and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Combine
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Squeeze in lemon juice or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra zing.
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
- Add grains: Serve over brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice.
- Switch the greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
- Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of chili oil or red pepper flakes for heat.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings
- Grains: Rice, couscous, or even garlic quinoa.
- Breads: Crusty whole grain bread or garlic naan.
- Sauces: Drizzle with tahini, chimichurri, or a lemony vinaigrette.
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meals, Healthy
- Method: Stovetop, Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Whip up this flavorful Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach—healthy, quick, and packed with garlicky goodness for a perfect weeknight meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Veggies:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Optional Add-Ons:
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
- In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in broccoli and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Add Spinach and Combine
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Squeeze in lemon juice or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra zing.
Notes
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.
- Add grains: Serve over brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice.
- Switch the greens: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
- Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of chili oil or red pepper flakes for heat.
Keywords: garlic chicken skillet, healthy one-pan dinner, broccoli chicken recipe, low-carb chicken recipe, chicken and spinach, 30-minute dinner, easy chicken recipe, meal prep chicken, keto chicken and broccoli, clean eating dinner
❓ FAQ: Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Can I use frozen broccoli or spinach?
Yes—thaw and drain well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully. Just make sure they’re cut evenly for quick cooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it great for keto or low-carb diets.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! It’s excellent for meal prep—portion it into containers and reheat when needed.
🧡 Healthy Comfort in Every Bite
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a go-to for weeknights when you want something light yet deeply satisfying. It’s a great way to load up on greens while keeping your taste buds happy. Let me know how you make it your own—spicy, cheesy, or creamy—there’s no wrong way!
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