Name: Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach (20 Minute Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt or more to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped in half; 1 cup spinach; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese

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Introduction

This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, it comes together in just 20 minutes for a nutritious and comforting meal.

The dish is a creamy chicken and vegetable stew served in a white pan with dark handles on both sides. The stew has chunks of light brown cooked chicken, green broccoli florets, spinach leaves, and small red tomato pieces all mixed together in a thick creamy light orange sauce with specks of green herbs. The pan sits on a white marbled textured surface with a gray and white striped cloth placed next to it on the left side. The creamy sauce slightly splashes around the inner rim of the pan, showing its rich texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves minced garlic
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
1 cup spinach
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz cream cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt, or more to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces of approximately equal size for even cooking.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 3: Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, making sure each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute to release its aroma.
Step 5: Stir in the chopped cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
Step 6: Add the spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese to the skillet.
Step 7: Stir well to combine all ingredients and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheeses melt and everything is blended smoothly.
Step 8: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Substitute mozzarella with fontina or Monterey Jack cheese for a different creamy texture.
Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a unique twist.
If you prefer more sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when adding the cream cheese.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a little water or broth during reheating helps maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy chicken dish in a white bowl showing chunky pieces of light golden chicken mixed with bright green broccoli florets and bits of fresh spinach. There are vibrant red cherry tomato halves scattered throughout the dish, all covered in a smooth, light yellow, cheesy sauce that has a slightly thick texture. A wooden spoon lifts a spoonful of the mixture, with melted cheese stretching from the bowl. The background features a white marbled surface with a blurred white cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli and spinach work well; just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely. This dish reheats well and can be portioned into containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.