This easy garlic chicken is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken pieces, crunchy broccoli, and fresh spinach come together in a tasty dish that’s quick to make and full of good stuff.
Honestly, who doesn’t love garlic? It’s like a fairy dust for food! I whip this up in no time, and it always impresses. Serve it with rice or pasta for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work great too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds nice crunch and color. If it’s not in season, feel free to swap for frozen broccoli – it’s just as nutritious and cooks up easily.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings a mild flavor and tons of vitamins. If you have kale on hand, it’s a great alternative – just chop it smaller since it’s denser.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes this dish shine, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work as well. Remember to adjust the amount according to your taste – I always love more garlic!
Chicken Broth: For richer flavor, use chicken broth. Vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option, and you can also use water if you’re in a bind – the dish will still be tasty!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not to overcook it. Cook the chicken in a hot skillet and keep an eye on the timing. Here’s how:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – let it breathe so it sears nicely.
- Remove the chicken as soon as it’s browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes.
- Let it rest a few minutes before adding back to the veggies – this keeps it tender.
These tips will help ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time!
Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for flavor depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious option for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is nice and hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and season them with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and throw in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender yet still have some crunch.
5. Steam the Broccoli:
Pour in the chicken broth and add soy sauce if you’re using it. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam for about 3-4 minutes until it’s tender.
6. Add the Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach leaves. Toss them into the skillet and stir until they wilt down, which should take about 2 minutes.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine and heat through for another minute or two.
8. Add Flavors:
Stir in red pepper flakes for a little heat, and if you like, squeeze in some lemon juice for brightness. This is also the time to taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the garlic chicken hot by itself or with steamed rice, quinoa, or on top of noodles. Enjoy your delicious, nutritious meal!
This recipe is not only easy but also a healthy way to enjoy chicken with vibrant greens and that fantastic garlic flavor!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Pat it dry before adding it to the skillet for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, follow the instructions directly. However, it’s best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the broccoli and spinach.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for the Broccoli?
If you don’t have broccoli on hand, you can substitute it with green beans, snap peas, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure your veggies are tender but still crisp!
