Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups spinach
1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded
4 oz cream cheese
Instructions:
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add Vegetables:
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds.
Add broccoli and cherry tomatoes, cook for 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
Finish the Dish:
Stir in spinach, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Cook until cheese is melted and spinach is wilted.
Serve:
Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.
Notes and Tips:
Chicken Preparation:
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for added flavor.
Vegetable Prep:
Broccoli: Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets for even cooking.
Spinach: Use fresh or frozen spinach. If using frozen, thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
Garlic Flavor:
For maximum flavor, use fresh minced garlic (about 3-4 cloves). Sauté the garlic until fragrant, but avoid browning it, as it can turn bitter.
If you love garlic, consider adding a dash of garlic powder for extra depth.
Cooking Tips:
Cook the chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Add the broccoli and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Stir in the spinach at the end, as it wilts quickly.
Flavor Enhancements:
Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the dish.
For a hint of spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve over a bed of rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
For a low-carb option, pair with cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.
Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the garlicky juices.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
This dish is simple, healthy, and full of flavor — a perfect way to enjoy a balanced meal with minimal effort!
Tip: For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked chicken.