Name: Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach in Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen); 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups fresh spinach (or thawed and well-drained frozen spinach); 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley; Red pepper flakes for heat

Introduction

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a creamy, one-pan dinner that combines tender chicken breast with fresh vegetables in a rich garlic cream cheese sauce. This low-carb, family-friendly recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without extra carbs.

The image shows a creamy dish in a white pan with wooden spoons lifting some food. The dish has several layers: light yellow creamy sauce that covers small pieces of broccoli with bright green florets, cherry tomatoes that are red and round, and chunks of chicken that are light brown and soft-looking. The sauce looks thick and smooth, with a shiny texture. The broccoli pieces are mixed evenly with the sauce, while the cherry tomatoes stand out with their bright color. The chicken chunks are scattered throughout, some partially covered by the sauce. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper, to taste

3–4 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)

1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach (or thawed and well-drained frozen spinach)

1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add the chicken to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked.

Step 4: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Step 5: Stir in the broccoli and halved tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.

Step 6: Add the spinach, shredded mozzarella, and softened cream cheese.

Step 7: Stir well until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 8: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

If using frozen broccoli or spinach, thaw completely and drain well to avoid excess moisture.

Soften cream cheese before adding for smoother blending.

Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for richer flavor.

For extra creaminess, add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream when adding the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and spinach but make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture that can dilute the sauce.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and stays creamy, making it a convenient option for preparing meals ahead of time.

Dinner

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach in Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe