Go Back
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a light yet satisfying dish loaded with protein and fiber. The tender chicken is seared to perfection, then tossed in a garlicky sauce with fresh green vegetables. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for those looking for a nourishing, balanced meal — all in one pan.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 4 cloves garlic minced or sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional for extra flavor
  • Juice of ½ lemon optional for extra brightness
  • For the Vegetables:
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 4 cups fresh spinach or 1 bag baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a bit of heat
  • ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water optional for steaming
  • Garnishes and Optional Add-ins:
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese optional for serving
  • Lemon wedges for extra brightness
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano (or thyme), and smoked paprika if using. If you have time, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for about 15 minutes to infuse more flavor.
  3. Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan.
  5. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  6. Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
  7. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil or butter if needed. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  8. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, add ¼ cup of chicken broth or water, cover the skillet, and steam the broccoli for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Step 4: Add the Spinach
  10. Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Spinach cooks quickly, so be sure to monitor it to avoid overcooking.
  11. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Step 5: Combine and Finish
  13. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces among the vegetables. Reduce the heat to low and allow the chicken to warm through for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
  14. For added brightness, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish before serving.
  15. Step 6: Serve and Garnish
  16. Serve hot, with optional garnishes like grated parmesan cheese, lemon wedges, or fresh parsley or basil. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from quinoa and brown rice to mashed cauliflower or whole-wheat pasta.

Notes

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

1. Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

  • One of the most common mistakes when cooking chicken is overcooking it, which can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F. Once the chicken reaches this temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.

2. Cook Broccoli to Your Preference

  • If you prefer your broccoli to be more tender, steam it before adding it to the skillet, or cook it with the lid on for a few extra minutes to trap in the steam. For those who enjoy a crisp bite, sautéing the broccoli for 5-7 minutes should be sufficient.

3. Sear the Chicken for Flavor

  • Searing the chicken properly helps develop a golden crust, which locks in flavor and juices. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken, and avoid moving the chicken too early. Let it sear for 4-5 minutes per side to develop that deep, flavorful crust.

4. Layer Flavors with Garlic

  • To maximize the garlic flavor, cook the garlic until just golden before adding the chicken. Avoid overcooking the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Adding the garlic in layers—first for the chicken and again for the vegetables—helps build a rich, savory base for the dish.