Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a simple, nourishing dinner that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. Lean chicken breast is cooked until golden, then tossed with garlic, tender broccoli florets, and fresh spinach for a balanced, satisfying meal. This recipe is ideal for healthy weeknight dinners, high-protein meals, and light recipes that still feel filling. Whether served on its own or paired with rice or quinoa, this garlic chicken dish is an easy option for clean, wholesome eating.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 2 large (about 1 lb) | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 Tbsp | Divided |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Minced |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups | Fresh |
| Fresh spinach | 3 cups | Washed and dried |
| Chicken broth or water | ¼ cup | For moisture |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 Tbsp | Bright finish |
Seasonings & Garnish
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salt | ½ tsp (to taste) |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp (optional) |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup (optional) |
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach (Healthy 30-Minute Dinner)
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick, healthy skillet dinner made with tender chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a bright lemon-garlic finish.
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cups fresh spinach
½ teaspoon salt, to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add remaining olive oil and sauté broccoli for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add garlic and spinach; cook 2 minutes until spinach wilts.
5. Return chicken to skillet and add broth.
6. Simmer 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Finish with lemon juice and Parmesan if using.
8. Serve immediately.
Notes
Serve with rice, quinoa, or pasta if desired.
Frozen broccoli may be used if thawed and drained.
Parmesan is optional for a lighter dish.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare all ingredients by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing the garlic. Rinse and drain the broccoli and spinach thoroughly.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir to combine. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Finish with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Conclusion
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a go-to recipe for quick, healthy dinners. With lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and simple seasoning, it delivers clean flavor without heaviness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a lighter meal, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well before cooking.
What can I serve with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, pasta, or cauliflower rice pair well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese.