This Easy Garlic Chicken is a quick and tasty dish packed with flavor. Juicy chicken meets fresh broccoli and spinach in a garlic sauce that smells amazing!
I love how simple it is to whip this up on busy nights. Plus, my kids enjoy the veggies (mostly)! It’s a win-win for dinner time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean texture, but thighs work wonderfully too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu make great substitutes!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add crunch and nutrients. You can use frozen broccoli in a pinch, just add it a bit earlier to ensure it warms through before serving.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is tender and blends well with the other ingredients. If you can’t find fresh, frozen spinach works; just thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding it.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for its flavor, feel free to use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer. They both have a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you have garlic powder, use 1/8 teaspoon per clove as a last resort, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky. Here’s a simple guide to help you achieve juicy, flavorful results:
- Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
This attention to cooking your chicken will make a significant difference. Enjoy your meal prep!
Easy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for a hint of umami)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening the sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy garlic chicken recipe takes about 25 minutes total—5-10 minutes for prep work and another 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and makes for a wonderful weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrients!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, throw in the broccoli florets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to become tender but still have a nice crispness to them.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and, if you’re using it, the soy sauce. Raise the heat a little to bring everything to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, add the washed spinach leaves and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through again.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with any extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for some heat if you like. Mix to incorporate the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious garlic chicken hot! It pairs well on its own or over rice, quinoa, or your favorite noodles. Enjoy your healthy and cozy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best ways to thaw it are either in the fridge overnight or by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker method. Pat dry before adding to the skillet to ensure proper browning.
What If I Don’t Have Broccoli or Spinach?
No worries! You can substitute these vegetables with other fresh or frozen options like green beans, bell peppers, or kale. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly until all vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
How Can I Make the Sauce Gluten-Free?
To make the sauce gluten-free, simply omit the soy sauce or substitute it with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. These options will give you similar flavors without the gluten!