Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach is a quick, creamy, and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and sautéed then combined with fresh vegetables and a creamy cheese sauce featuring cream cheese and mozzarella. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe balances lean protein with nutrient-rich broccoli and spinach for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to become tender. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until the spinach is wilted and nicely combined with the other ingredients.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the softened cream cheese directly into the skillet until it melts completely and coats the chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt in the warmth of the skillet.
- Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired. Serve hot directly from the skillet and enjoy this delicious, creamy garlic chicken with fresh veggies.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with a different melting cheese if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
