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Looking for a nutritious, flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please your family? Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a perfect dish for a balanced dinner. Packed with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, this recipe brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty spinach, all infused with the rich taste of garlic.
I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of garlic filled my kitchen, and my family couldn't wait to dig in. It's become a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights when we need a quick yet nutritious meal.
Essential Ingredients Explained
- Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into even pieces and seasoned with salt, black pepper, and paprika for enhanced flavor and color.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for a savory depth that complements the chicken and greens.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the garlic and chicken.
- Broccoli: 1 head, cut into florets, for a vibrant and nutrient-rich addition.
- Spinach: 2 cups fresh, for a hearty and healthy green.
- Chicken Broth or Water: 1/2 cup, to help steam the broccoli and add flavor.
- Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional), for extra richness.
- Lemon Zest: Optional, for a refreshing touch.
Preparing the Chicken
- Seasoning the Chicken
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into even pieces and seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This helps enhance the flavor and creates a nice color when cooked.
- Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Cooking the Broccoli
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the chicken broth or water and cover with a lid. Let steam for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Adding the Spinach
- Remove the lid and add the fresh spinach to the pan. Stir and let it cook for about 1 minute, just until it wilts.
Combining and Serving
- Mixing Ingredients
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, mixing it with the broccoli and spinach. Cook for another minute to ensure everything is heated through and infused with the garlic flavor. Optionally, add a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing hint.
- Serving
- Plate your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach and serve with rice or quinoa on the side for a complete meal. Finish with a touch of parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes if desired.
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I particularly love the addition of fresh spinach in this recipe. It adds a hearty and healthy green that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. My family often requests this dish, especially during the week when we need a quick yet nutritious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with cooked rice, quinoa, or even a light pasta. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken for a spicier dish.
- Vegetable Swaps: Swap broccoli for other green vegetables like asparagus or green beans if desired.
- Meal Prep: This dish stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. When reheating, use a stovetop or microwave until heated through.
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a perfect weeknight dinner option that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. It is rich in protein and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Plus, its easy preparation ensures that you'll be serving up a wholesome meal in no time.
Try this recipe tonight and discover how simple it is to create a meal that's both satisfying and good for you. Whether you're cooking for your family or just for yourself, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy this meal on busy nights or as a part of your meal prep plan for the week.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different vegetable?
- Yes, you can swap broccoli for asparagus or zucchini.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used for a quicker meal.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
- Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
- It pairs well with rice, pasta, or quinoa.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste or omit them.