If you are looking for a delicious, wholesome dinner that comes together in a flash, this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is a total winner. Imagine tender chicken breast pieces bursting with savory garlic flavor, perfectly complemented by vibrant green broccoli and a melty mix of mozzarella and cream cheese that creates a comforting, rich sauce. It’s that rare dish that brings together healthy veggies, satisfying protein, and irresistible creaminess in one skillet, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without a fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the juicy chicken to the fresh broccoli and luscious cheeses, you’ll find that the quality and balance of these basics make all the difference.
- Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: This lean protein cooks quickly and soaks up all the spices and garlic flavor beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in achieving a perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- Broccoli florets: Provide a satisfying crunch and a vibrant pop of healthy green to brighten the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that infuses the chicken with warm, earthy notes.
- Garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient for that irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy sweetness balances the savory elements wonderfully.
- Fresh spinach: Adds a tender, leafy green texture and a boost of nutrients.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey, stringy goodness that binds the dish together.
- Cream cheese: Brings creamy, tangy richness that turns this skillet meal into pure comfort food.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential basic seasonings that highlight all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them well with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes until each piece is golden and cooked through. This step is crucial for locking in flavor and creating those beautiful crispy edges that make every bite exciting.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about 1 minute. You’ll immediately notice the air filling with that irresistible garlic aroma, signaling the flavor foundation of this dish is coming together. Be careful not to burn the garlic as that will turn it bitter and overpower the delicate balance of tastes.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Now it’s time to introduce the broccoli florets and halved tomatoes to the skillet. These ingredients add both texture and color, turning the dish into a beautiful, wholesome meal. Let everything cook for an additional 5 minutes so the broccoli becomes tender but still maintains a little crunch, and the tomatoes soften just enough to release their sweetness.
Step 4: Bring It All Together with Cheese and Spinach
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese until well combined. The cheeses melt into a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken and veggies, while the spinach wilts into tender freshness. This how the dish achieves its hallmark creamy goodness and inviting texture.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once everything is warm and the cheeses are melted, remove the skillet from heat. This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is best enjoyed hot and fresh to savor the full flavors and creamy texture. No complicated plating needed — just scoop it onto plates and prepare to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the final presentation and add a flavor boost, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top. A dash of red pepper flakes can bring a subtle heat if you like it a bit spicy. A light zest of lemon also brightens the creamy richness beautifully, making each bite feel fresh and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the cheesy sauce perfectly, or you could serve it alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting carb companion. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy chicken and broccoli nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe stuffed inside pita bread or warm tortillas as a quick wrap. Another idea is to layer it over baked sweet potatoes for a visually stunning and nutrient-packed meal. Even plating it over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles adds an elegant, light touch that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to have a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner ready without any extra prep work.
Freezing
If you want to save the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or sealed bag. It’s best to consume within 2 months for maximum flavor and texture preservation. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but cover loosely to retain moisture and prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help revive the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli pairs wonderfully with the garlic chicken, you can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Italian seasoning and other ingredients don’t contain any hidden gluten. Always double-check labels if you are cooking for someone with gluten intolerance.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
You certainly can! Chicken thighs will offer a slightly richer flavor and more moisture, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
What’s the best way to mince garlic quickly?
To mince garlic quickly, peel the cloves and use a sharp knife to finely chop, or try a garlic press if you have one on hand. Both methods release that wonderful garlic flavor essential for the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegan or vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, use plant-based cream cheese and vegan mozzarella, and omit the meat seasonings. The combination still offers great texture and rich flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick, flavorful, and nourishing all at once, making it a fantastic go-to for busy days or casual dinners with family and friends. I promise once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this simple yet indulgent recipe. So grab your skillet, gather those vibrant ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with this incredible meal!
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Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with fresh broccoli, garlic, and juicy tomatoes, then combined with creamy mozzarella and cream cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish. Packed with veggies and protein, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
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
Pantry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
- Cook chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and is cooked through.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute more, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
- Cook vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and halved tomatoes to the skillet. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp.
- Add spinach and cheeses: Mix in the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the cheeses melt completely, creating a creamy sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the garlic chicken with broccoli to serving plates. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, flavorful dish at its best.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella.
- You can substitute kale or green beans for broccoli if preferred.
- Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
