Name: Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly; 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head); 3 cups fresh baby spinach, packed; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional); ½ cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker sauce); 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch); Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)

Craving something fresh, savory, and absolutely packed with flavor? This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is the weeknight winner you've been searching for!

Juicy, golden chicken is infused with aromatic garlic, tossed with crisp-tender broccoli and velvety spinach, all in a light, garlicky sauce. Each bite bursts with vibrant greens and zesty flavor, making it as healthy as it is irresistible.

Best of all, it's a true one-pan wonder-meaning dinner is on the table in under 40 minutes, cleanup is a breeze, and everyone leaves the table happy. Perfect for busy nights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want big flavor without a lot of fuss.

This is one of my family's all-time favorites, inspired by my quest to get everyone to eat (and love!) their greens. Trust me, even the spinach skeptics go back for seconds.

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach sauteed in a pan

Why You'll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal makes for easy prep and minimal cleanup
Loaded with nutritious veggies yet totally satisfying
Bursting with garlicky, savory flavors everyone craves
Ready in 40 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights
Easily customizable for your favorite veggies or dietary needs

Key Ingredients for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the star protein here, offering lean and tender bites that soak up all that garlicky goodness. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture and even cooking. You can substitute boneless thighs for a juicier twist-just trim excess fat for a lighter finish.

Fresh Garlic

Garlic gives this dish its incredible aroma and bold flavor. Use freshly minced garlic for the best punch, as pre-chopped or jarred garlic can taste muted. If you love extra garlic flavor, don't be shy about adding an extra clove or two!

Broccoli Florets

Broccoli adds vibrant color, crunch, and plenty of nutrients. Cut the florets into small, uniform pieces so they cook quickly and evenly. Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before sautéing.

Spinach

Spinach wilts down beautifully into the sauce, bringing a mild, earthy flavor and a hearty dose of iron and vitamins. Baby spinach is perfect and needs no prep-just toss it in at the end. You can swap in chopped kale or Swiss chard for a sturdier green if you prefer.

Low Sodium Chicken Broth

A splash of chicken broth helps create a light, savory sauce that ties everything together. Low-sodium options let you control the salt level. Vegetable broth works in a pinch if you want to keep things meatless.

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach cooking process

Instructions for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Chicken and Vegetables

Slice your chicken breasts into thin, even strips so they cook quickly and stay juicy. Cut broccoli into bite-size florets and mince the garlic. Have your spinach ready to toss in at the end.

Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to turn bright green. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant-be careful not to let the garlic brown.

Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Cover and let the broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes, or until just tender but still vibrant.

Finish with Spinach and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) to the pan. Add the spinach and toss everything together until the spinach just wilts and the chicken is heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Optional: Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water. Stir this slurry into the pan in the final minute and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Recipe Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Skip the Parmesan, or use a dairy-free grated cheese alternative. The fresh, garlicky flavor shines on its own, too-no cheese necessary!

Go Low-Carb or Keto

Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or pasta. This keeps the dish light and lower in carbs while still super filling.

Swap in Different Veggies

Not a fan of broccoli or spinach? Try this recipe with asparagus, green beans, kale, or bell peppers. Use whatever is in season or your family loves best!

Extra Creamy Version

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a richer, silkier sauce. It transforms this dish into pure comfort food.

Vegan Adaptation

Use firm tofu instead of chicken, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and double the veggies. It's just as hearty and delicious plant-based!

Serving Suggestions

Pile this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach over fluffy rice, tender quinoa, or your favorite pasta for a full meal. For low-carb options, try cauliflower rice or serve it on its own. A simple green salad and warm crusty bread round things out perfectly. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a squeeze of extra lemon for brightness!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep things moist. You can microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts until hot. While this dish is not ideal for freezing due to the delicate spinach, you can freeze it for up to 2 months if needed-just note the veggies may soften slightly after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli and spinach?

A: Yes! Just thaw and drain both well before adding to the skillet to avoid excess water and ensure great texture.

Q: What’s the best way to avoid overcooking the chicken?

A: Slice chicken thinly for quick, even cooking. Remove from the skillet as soon as it's just cooked through, then return it at the end to heat through with the veggies.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch plus 2 tablespoons water) just before finishing the dish to give the sauce more body.

Thanks so much for joining me in the kitchen! I hope this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach becomes your new go-to dinner whenever you want something fast, healthy, and full of bold flavor. Give it a try, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating below-I'd love to hear how it turns out for you!