Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing, but you can replace it with avocado oil or even butter if you prefer a richer flavor.

Chicken Breast: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute if you like darker meat. They have more fat, which keeps them juicy during cooking.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) will work too. I love using roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal, but you can use frozen florets. Just make sure to reduce the cooking time slightly. For variety, cauliflower or green beans are good swaps.

Spinach: Fresh spinach is beautiful in this dish. If you don’t have fresh, you can use thawed frozen spinach—just squeeze out excess moisture.

Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, water or vegetable broth works fine. Adding a splash of soy sauce enhances the flavor, so keep that in mind!

How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Always Tender?

Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have juicy results every time!

• Preheat your pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the outside quickly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Crowding will lower the temperature and steam the chicken instead of browning it.
• Use a meat thermometer: Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. It’s the best way to avoid dry meat.
• Let it rest: After cooking, leave the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step can help keep the juices in.

Using these tips will ensure your Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is always satisfying and delicious!

Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 3 cups)
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra savoriness)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Time Needed:

This dish will take you about 5 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as that can make it taste bitter.

3. Steam the Broccoli:

Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth (or water) to the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and let the broccoli steam for about 4-5 minutes. You want it to be tender but still a bit crisp!

4. Add the Spinach:

Next, stir in the fresh spinach leaves, the soy sauce (if you’re using it), and the red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Cook everything together for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.

5. Combine and Serve:

Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve this delicious meal hot, and add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor if you like!

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach!

FAQ for Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Ideally, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and sauté the veggies ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the flavors.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave. Adding a little splash of chicken broth while reheating can help maintain moisture.

What Can I Substitute for Spinach?

If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the pan to prevent a watery dish.