This garlic chicken with broccoli is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines tender chicken bites, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy garlic sauce. Packed with protein and low in carbs, it's a satisfying dish that comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy to make in just one pan
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Full of flavor from garlic, herbs, and creamy cheese
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Low-carb and keto-friendly
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Great for meal prep and reheating
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Family-friendly and customizable with your favorite vegetables
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Uses common pantry ingredients
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Perfectly balanced with protein and fiber
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Makes juicy and tender chicken every time
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Versatile—serve with zoodles, rice, or pasta
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Simple cleanup with one skillet required
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
olive oil
broccoli florets
Italian seasoning
garlic cloves, minced
grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
fresh spinach
mozzarella cheese, shredded
cream cheese
salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Stir in broccoli and tomatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
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Add spinach, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
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Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Swap chicken breast with thighs, steak, or shrimp
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Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini
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Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce
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Use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda
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Add a splash of heavy cream for extra creaminess
Storage/Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
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Freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed container
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Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through
FAQs
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and use bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cream cheese with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, regular pasta, or a simple salad.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely, it's great for meal prep and tastes just as good reheated.
Can I use other herbs?
Yes, feel free to use thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of Italian seasoning.
What kind of pan should I use?
A large non-stick or cast iron skillet works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.
How do I know the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Conclusion
Garlic chicken with broccoli is the ultimate weeknight meal—easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and adaptable to your taste. Whether you're on a keto diet or just looking for a wholesome, protein-rich dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it's just as delicious the next day, making it a go-to for meal prepping and leftovers.
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a quick, one-pan keto-friendly meal that’s loaded with flavor from fresh garlic, herbs, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this creamy low-carb dish brings together juicy chicken breast, crisp-tender broccoli, and vibrant veggies in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Broccoli florets
Italian seasoning
Garlic cloves, minced
Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh spinach
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Cream cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Instructions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add broccoli and tomatoes; cook for 5 more minutes until broccoli is tender.
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Mix in spinach, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir until well combined and cheese is melted.
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Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Swap in chicken thighs, steak, or shrimp for variety.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- For a spicier version, use chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Use cheddar or gouda in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 1 month.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Skillet
- Cuisine: American
