Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

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June 24, 2024 By Olivia in DINNER

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful meal, look no further than this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a burst of garlic, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
    • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
  3. Combine and Simmer:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
    • Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
    • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables.
    • Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Serve:
    • Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over a bed of the broccoli and spinach mixture.
    • Optional: sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

Serving Tips:

  1. Pair with Grains:
    • Serve the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach over a bed of whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. This adds extra fiber and makes the meal more filling.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
    • A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. It also enhances the overall flavor.
  3. Add a Side Salad:
    • Complement the meal with a simple side salad. A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the main dish.
  4. Include a Lemon Wedge:
    • Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating can brighten the flavors.
  5. Top with Cheese:
    • For those who enjoy a cheesy touch, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top can add a delightful savory element.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration:
    • Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
    • Place the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach in an airtight container.
    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  2. Freezing:
    • This dish can be frozen for longer storage.
    • Portion the meal into individual freezer-safe containers.
    • Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
    • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  3. Reheating:
    • For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.
    • Alternatively, reheat in the microwave. Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
  4. Maintaining Quality:
    • When reheating, avoid overcooking the chicken and vegetables as they can become dry or mushy.
    • If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the dish first to ensure even heating.
  5. Meal Prep:
    • This recipe is ideal for meal prepping. Prepare the dish and divide it into individual meal prep containers.
    • Store in the refrigerator or freeze as needed, making it easy to grab a healthy meal on the go.

Variations for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

While the classic Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach recipe is a delight, adding a twist can make it even more exciting. Here are some variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

1. Creamy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

  • Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Instructions: After sautéing the garlic and vegetables, pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.

2. Spicy Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes and 1 tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce.
  • Instructions: Add the red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Stir in the sriracha or hot sauce with the chicken broth and lemon juice for a spicy kick.

3. Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, Spinach, and Mushrooms:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms.
  • Instructions: Sauté the mushrooms along with the broccoli. This adds a rich, earthy flavor to the dish.

4. Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, Spinach, and Cherry Tomatoes:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.
  • Instructions: Add the cherry tomatoes when adding the spinach. They will add a burst of color and a sweet, tangy flavor to the dish.

5. Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, Spinach, and Bell Peppers:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 red bell pepper, sliced.
  • Instructions: Sauté the bell pepper slices with the broccoli for a crunchy and colorful addition.

6. Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme, and zest of one lemon.
  • Instructions: Add the fresh herbs when adding the garlic. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the dish before serving for a fresh and aromatic flavor.

7. Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, Spinach, and Zucchini:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 medium zucchini, sliced.
  • Instructions: Sauté the zucchini slices with the broccoli. Zucchini adds a subtle flavor and extra nutrients to the dish.

8. Asian-Inspired Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

  • Ingredients: Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
  • Instructions: Replace the lemon juice with soy sauce and add sesame oil for an Asian twist. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

9. Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, Spinach, and Carrots:

  • Ingredients: Add 1 cup of thinly sliced carrots.
  • Instructions: Sauté the carrot slices with the broccoli for added sweetness and crunch.

Conclusion:

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a nutritious option for meal prep, this recipe delivers on both taste and health benefits. Try it out today and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that’s sure to impress!

FAQ’s about Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli and spinach instead of fresh?

  • Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the skillet to avoid excess water in the dish.

2. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

  • To keep the chicken juicy, cook it over medium-high heat until golden brown and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

  • Absolutely. This dish is great for meal prep. Prepare it as directed, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

4. What can I use instead of chicken breasts?

  • You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the thighs are cooked through.

5. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

  • Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Sauté the tofu or tempeh until golden brown before adding the vegetables.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

  • Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sides you serve with it are also gluten-free.

7. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

  • Absolutely. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the mix. Sauté them with the broccoli for a colorful and nutritious variation.

8. What can I serve with Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach?

  • This dish pairs well with whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. You can also serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

9. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

  • Yes, you can use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand. Substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic will give a more robust flavor.

10. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

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