Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with garlic, fresh broccoli, and spinach, finished with a bright lemon and savory Parmesan touch. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Add Spinach and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the brown bits from the skillet bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the garlic, broccoli, and spinach mixture over the top. Heat together for another 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and vegetables just before serving for a savory finish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but reduce the cooking time as frozen spinach cooks faster.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit if desired.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
- This dish pairs well with cooked rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
