Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick and healthy dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, all brought together with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish both delicious and wholesome.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken Breast: 2 cups, cubed. A lean source of protein, providing the main component of the dish.
- Broccoli Florets: 1 cup. Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a dose of vitamins and fiber.
- Spinach Leaves: 1 cup. Rich in iron and antioxidants, spinach complements the dish with its tender, leafy texture.
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup. Used for sautéing, it adds a healthy fat component and enhances the flavor of the chicken and vegetables.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Adds moisture and depth of flavor, helping to tenderize the broccoli while simmering.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup. Provides a rich, savory finish to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon, minced. The key flavor component, infusing the dish with a warm, aromatic taste.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the dish.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. Adds a subtle hint of spice and depth to the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Heat Olive Oil
- In a large pan, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s hot enough to start cooking.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides and cooked through. This process ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender.
- Step 3: Add Garlic
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. The garlic should become fragrant, infusing the chicken with its rich aroma without burning.
- Step 4: Add Broccoli and Broth
- Next, add 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the pan. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The broccoli will become tender and soak up the flavors from the broth and garlic.
- Step 5: Add Spinach
- Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach has wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. The spinach will add a vibrant green color and a tender texture to the dish.
- Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and well combined, giving the dish a savory, rich finish.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is best served hot, straight from the pan. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or pasta, making it a versatile main dish for any meal.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or use a microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it out into individual containers with your choice of side, making it a convenient and healthy option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- For a variation, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Helpful Notes
- When cooking the chicken, ensure it is fully browned on all sides before adding the garlic. This step helps to seal in the juices and enhance the flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the pan along with the chicken broth.
- For a more robust flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a more intense flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends seasoning the chicken generously before cooking to ensure that every bite is full of flavor.
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests using a mix of olive oil and a knob of butter for added richness when cooking the chicken.
- Chef Rachael Ray advises adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cheese.