Description
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a creamy, one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, juicy tomatoes, and spinach all combined in a rich garlic cream cheese sauce. This low-carb, family-friendly dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet healthy.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 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
Dairy
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Heat oil and cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook vegetables: Stir in the broccoli florets and halved tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the broccoli becomes tender-crisp but still vibrant.
- Add spinach and cheeses: Add the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve the dish warm for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Notes
- If using frozen broccoli or spinach, be sure to thaw completely and drain well to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
- Softening the cream cheese beforehand helps it blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
- For an extra creamy sauce, add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream along with the cheeses.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Chicken, Broccoli, Spinach, Cream Cheese Sauce, One-Pan Dinner, Low Carb, Quick Dinner, Family-Friendly
