Featured in: Center-of-the-Plate Recipes
Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and wilted spinach come together in this quick, one-pan garlic chicken dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. Sautéed in fragrant olive oil and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a simple yet refined meal that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.
It’s the kind of recipe that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. Perfect for busy evenings, this dinner is ready in under 30 minutes and delivers a satisfying combination of lean protein, greens, and savory depth — all with minimal cleanup.
A Simple, Satisfying Dinner
There’s a special kind of joy in a recipe that feels both wholesome and indulgent — and this garlic chicken delivers exactly that. Golden-seared chicken mingles with tender broccoli and delicate spinach, creating layers of texture and warmth. A touch of chicken broth adds moisture while Parmesan cheese melts into a light, silky sauce.
Whether served solo for a light meal or paired with rice or pasta, it’s a versatile dish that’s earned a permanent place in my weeknight rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for weeknights
- Uses one pan for effortless cleanup
- Packed with protein, fiber, and greens
- Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
- Adaptable with endless variations
This meal has become my go-to when I crave something clean and flavorful that doesn’t require a dozen ingredients or a pile of dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-sized cubes cook quickly and stay tender.
Broccoli florets: Choose bright green florets with firm stems for the best crunch and color.
Spinach leaves: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and brings vibrant flavor and nutrition.
Olive oil: The foundation of the dish — choose extra-virgin for its rich aroma.
Chicken broth: Adds body and creates a light, glossy sauce to coat the vegetables and chicken.
Parmesan cheese: A dusting of freshly grated Parmesan ties everything together with savory depth.
Garlic: The aromatic heart of the recipe — use fresh cloves for the best flavor.
Salt & black pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every element of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Oil
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. The pan should be hot enough to sear the chicken without smoking.
2. Sear the Chicken
Add cubed chicken breast and cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden crust. Stir occasionally and cook until fully opaque, about 6–7 minutes in total.
3. Add the Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it — the goal is gentle blooming, not crisping.
4. Steam the Broccoli
Add broccoli florets and pour in chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the steam soften the broccoli for about 5 minutes until tender yet vibrant.
5. Wilt the Spinach
Uncover the pan, add fresh spinach, and stir until just wilted — about 2 minutes. The greens should retain their deep green hue and silky texture.
6. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper over the pan. Toss gently to combine, letting the cheese melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving immediately.
What to Serve With It
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Brown rice or quinoa for a hearty, wholesome bowl
- Whole-wheat pasta or couscous for an Italian twist
- Crusty artisan bread to soak up the garlicky sauce
- A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc for brightness and balance
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t crowd the pan: Sear chicken in batches if needed so it browns instead of steams.
- Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- Adjust broth: Add a splash more for a saucier finish or reduce for a thicker coating.
- Add a citrus note: A squeeze of lemon just before serving enhances freshness.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or olive oil to restore the sauce’s smoothness.
This recipe also works well for meal prep — pack portions with rice or pasta for quick lunches throughout the week.
Ingredient Swaps
- Broccoli → Broccolini for a sweeter, more delicate texture
- Parmesan → Pecorino Romano for a saltier punch
- Spinach → Kale or Swiss chard for heartier greens
- Chicken → Shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian variation
Culinary Inspiration
Rooted in classic Italian flavors, this dish celebrates simplicity — olive oil, garlic, greens, and cheese. It embodies the Mediterranean principle that good cooking doesn’t require complexity, only care and quality ingredients. Each bite feels both fresh and comforting, much like the family dinners that inspired it.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Cook just until the pieces are golden and no longer pink inside. Overcooking leads to dryness.
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, thaw and drain well before adding to prevent excess water in the sauce.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and cheese contain no additives.
→ Can I make it dairy-free?
Omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
→ What’s the best pan to use?
A large nonstick skillet or stainless-steel sauté pan allows even browning and easy cleanup.
Nutritional Snapshot (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 310 | Protein: 36g | Fat: 15g | Carbs: 7g | Fiber: 3g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
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