Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe showcases a delicious blend of garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Vegetables
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Dairy & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance their flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly tender. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes to soften them.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and incorporated.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt, creating a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic chicken with broccoli and spinach.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
- Use fresh mozzarella if you prefer a creamier texture.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
