Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and healthy ingredients. Whip it up in just 25 minutes for a satisfying meal any day of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and broccoli, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice to suit your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its creamy texture and savory taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli efficiently, having the right tools will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while providing enough space for adding vegetables without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise chopping of ingredients like garlic, onion, and broccoli.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Vegetables

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 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

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)

How to Make Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add butter to the skillet and let it melt.
1. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Cook Broccoli

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

Step 4: Add Spinach

Reduce heat to medium.
1. Add fresh spinach to the skillet.
2. Cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

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

Step 6: Combine Everything

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

Step 7: Add Some Heat (Optional)

If you like it spicy, sprinkle red pepper flakes into your dish!

Step 8: Serve

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

How to Serve Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the creamy garlic chicken mixture over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting and filling meal.

With Pasta

• Toss the garlic chicken and vegetables with your favorite pasta. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to noodles, making every bite delicious.

Cauliflower Rice

• For a lower-carb option, serve over sautéed cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors wonderfully and adds a nutritious twist.

In a Wrap

• Try wrapping the chicken and veggies in a whole wheat or spinach tortilla for an easy-to-eat option. Perfect for lunch on the go!

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. A great side for those who enjoy dipping!

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve atop quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor that complements the dish nicely.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

To make your Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and broccoli will enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Cook chicken properly: Ensure that chicken is cooked through but not overdone. Juicy chicken enhances the overall dish.
• Add lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds freshness.
• Experiment with cheese: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for different flavor profiles.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just be cautious not to overcook the vegetables during reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Green Beans
   A light and crunchy addition that complements the creamy chicken perfectly.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic enhance comfort while balancing out the main dish.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with savory flavors in your main dish.

4. Mixed Green Salad
   A fresh salad tossed in vinaigrette adds crispness and balances out the richness of the garlic cream sauce.

5. Baked Zucchini Fries
   These crispy fries make for a fun finger food option that pairs well with any main course.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs provides a nutritious and filling side that complements well without overpowering.

7. Sautéed Mushrooms
   Earthy sautéed mushrooms add depth to your meal while being quick and easy to prepare.

8. Couscous Pilaf
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs or spices offers an aromatic side that enhances every bite of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the garlic and chicken. Always use medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken and vegetables properly will leave your dish bland. Make sure to season as you cook for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking broccoli and spinach for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp broccoli and wilted spinach for the best texture.
• Ignoring the resting time: Not allowing the chicken to rest after cooking can lead to dryness. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.
• Skipping the cream factor: Omitting heavy cream or a suitable alternative will result in a less creamy sauce. Don’t skip this ingredient if you want a rich flavor.
• Neglecting customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add other veggies or spices that you enjoy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli healthy?

This dish is packed with protein from chicken, nutrients from spinach and broccoli, and healthy fats from olive oil. It’s a balanced meal option.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh spinach in Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it.

How do I customize Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli?

You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, or even swap out chicken for turkey or beef for variety.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free Garlic Chicken Spinach With Broccoli.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the spices according to your taste preferences. It’s perfect served over rice or pasta, making it an excellent choice for any meal!

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Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Garlic Chicken Spinach with Broccoli is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce. This meal is not only quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes—but is also a wholesome option for family dinners or meal prep. The rich flavors from the garlic and Parmesan cheese make it a crowd-pleaser, while the bright colors of the vegetables ensure it’s as appealing visually as it is delicious. Serve it over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a satisfying meal any day of the week!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 head of broccoli
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 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
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer while stirring continuously.
6. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together to coat well.
8. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 530
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 46g
• Cholesterol: 140mg