When I think about a dish that checks all the boxes, garlic butter chicken broccoli leaps to mind. Balancing protein, veggies, and incredible flavors, this meal feels like a warm hug on a plate. It goes wonderfully with everything from fluffy rice to a tangy side salad.
Pairing it with a crisp Chardonnay could amplify the entire experience. Fancy, right? However, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy this. Let’s dive deeper into how this recipe came about and why it’s deserving of a place on your dinner table.
The Beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli
This recipe thrives on simplicity and exuberance. There’s a magical transformation happening when garlic mingles with butter and chicken. It’s like a backstage pass to flavor city without the hefty ticket price. I love cooking meals that cater to busy lives but don’t compromise on taste.
What I adore most about garlic butter chicken and broccoli is its ability to gather friends and family around the table. This dish leaves everyone happy and satisfied, and the leftovers (if you have any!) make for a fabulous lunch.
How I Use the Ingredients
Let’s talk about the ingredients. I see them as individual notes in a melody. Each brings its unique flair while working together to create a harmonious dish. The fresh garlic is the star. I often find joy in mincing it—there’s something therapeutic about chopping onions and garlic, right? It’s ground zero for flavor.
The red pepper flakes are a playful nod for those of us who enjoy a little kick. And then, there’s butter. Oh, the allure of butter! I carry a love for unsalted butter; not only does it enhance the richness, but it allows me to control the seasoning. If there’s a culinary superhero out there, extra-virgin olive oil fits the bill. It provides a heart-healthy fat that’s also full of flavors—no wonder it’s a staple in many kitchens.
And then you have the crown jewel, broccoli. I adore its green, hearty textures, providing a perfect counterpoint to the juicy chicken. To round it all off, a splash of lemon juice brightens the whole dish. It’s like a spotlight shining on all the flavors.
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Ingredients List
For this mouthwatering garlic butter chicken broccoli, you will need:
- 3–4 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, divided into portions
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for extra savory depth)
- 3–4 cups fresh broccoli florets or tender broccolini
- 1 teaspoon classic Italian herb seasoning
- 1 teaspoon EACH sea salt, garlic powder, and dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or juice of ½ lemon)
- ½ teaspoon EACH ground black pepper and mild chili powder
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water if preferred)
- 2 medium chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli
Cooking this dish is straightforward, and I can assure you that it’s as fun as it is delicious. You don’t need to be a master chef to pull it off.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before the cooking starts, it’s beneficial to prep everything. Mince your garlic and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Get your seasonings lined up. This process makes actual cooking much smoother. Plus, who doesn’t love the enchanting aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While it’s warming, season both sides of your chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. This adds a superb layer of taste.
Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the pan. Let it sizzle for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer for precision; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Build the Flavor
After removing the chicken from the skillet, cover it with foil to keep it warm. Now comes the exciting part! In the same skillet, melt half of the butter over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. You want to cook it just enough to release those garlicky flavors, and trust me, your kitchen will start to feel like an Italian trattoria.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Chicken Broth
Stir in the broccoli florets and add the chicken broth or water. Stir everything together, ensuring the broccoli gets a nice coating. Cover the skillet for about 3-4 minutes. This steaming step softens the broccoli while keeping its vibrant color—gotta love that pop of green!
Step 5: Finish Strong
After the broccoli has cooked, remove the lid and return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the remaining butter, adding Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Let it all mingle for another couple of minutes until the cheese is melty and the chicken is heated through. Season to taste and get ready for a culinary masterpiece.
Recipe Notes
- Garlic: Always opt for fresh garlic. The pungent taste and aroma will elevate your dish tremendously.
- Chicken: You can slice the chicken breasts for quicker cooking. Bonus points if you marinate it ahead of time.
- Broccoli: Feel free to swap it with asparagus or cauliflower if you fancy something different.
- Butter: The unsalted variety allows you to control the salt levels but feel free to use salted if that’s what you have.
- Cheese: Parmesan adds a delightful savory touch. Grating it fresh not only tastes better but melts beautifully.
- Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat. This recipe invites experimentation!
Nutrition Information
Recipe Variations
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some variations:
- Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for an added crunch.
- Use Different Vegetables: Replace broccoli with bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas. Each gives a unique flavor twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil or thyme can offer a new flavor perspective. Mix it up according to what you have on hand.
- Add Cream: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream towards the end.
- Grain Base: Serve over quinoa or brown rice rather than just as a standalone dish.
Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 3 –4 fresh garlic cloves finely minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
- ¼ cup unsalted butter divided into portions
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for extra savory depth
- 3 –4 cups fresh broccoli florets or tender broccolini
- 1 teaspoon classic Italian herb seasoning
- 1 teaspoon EACH sea salt garlic powder, and dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or juice of ½ lemon
- ½ teaspoon EACH ground black pepper and mild chili powder
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water if preferred
- 2 medium chicken breasts about 1 pound total
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Before the cooking starts, it’s beneficial to prep everything. Mince your garlic and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Get your seasonings lined up. This process makes actual cooking much smoother. Plus, who doesn’t love the enchanting aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While it’s warming, season both sides of your chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. This adds a superb layer of taste.
- Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the pan. Let it sizzle for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer for precision; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Build the Flavor
- After removing the chicken from the skillet, cover it with foil to keep it warm. Now comes the exciting part! In the same skillet, melt half of the butter over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. You want to cook it just enough to release those garlicky flavors, and trust me, your kitchen will start to feel like an Italian trattoria.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Chicken Broth
- Stir in the broccoli florets and add the chicken broth or water. Stir everything together, ensuring the broccoli gets a nice coating. Cover the skillet for about 3-4 minutes. This steaming step softens the broccoli while keeping its vibrant color—gotta love that pop of green!
Step 5: Finish Strong
- After the broccoli has cooked, remove the lid and return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the remaining butter, adding Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Let it all mingle for another couple of minutes until the cheese is melty and the chicken is heated through. Season to taste and get ready for a culinary masterpiece.
Notes
- Garlic: Always opt for fresh garlic. The pungent taste and aroma will elevate your dish tremendously.
- Chicken: You can slice the chicken breasts for quicker cooking. Bonus points if you marinate it ahead of time.
- Broccoli: Feel free to swap it with asparagus or cauliflower if you fancy something different.
- Butter: The unsalted variety allows you to control the salt levels but feel free to use salted if that’s what you have.
- Cheese: Parmesan adds a delightful savory touch. Grating it fresh not only tastes better but melts beautifully.
- Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat. This recipe invites experimentation!
- Garlic: Always opt for fresh garlic. The pungent taste and aroma will elevate your dish tremendously.
- Chicken: You can slice the chicken breasts for quicker cooking. Bonus points if you marinate it ahead of time.
- Broccoli: Feel free to swap it with asparagus or cauliflower if you fancy something different.
- Butter: The unsalted variety allows you to control the salt levels but feel free to use salted if that’s what you have.
- Cheese: Parmesan adds a delightful savory touch. Grating it fresh not only tastes better but melts beautifully.
- Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat. This recipe invites experimentation!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be mindful that frozen broccoli cooks faster. Toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid mushiness.
2. How can I meal prep this dish?
You can cook everything ahead and portion it into containers. This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat gently to keep the flavors intact.
3. What can I serve with garlic butter chicken broccoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or pasta. A light side salad or garlic bread rounds out the meal beautifully.
4. Can I adapt this recipe for a slow cooker?
Yes! Sear the chicken briefly for flavor, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for tender, flavorful chicken.
5. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are mild enough for younger palates, and the chicken and broccoli are always a hit.
6. How can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t rely on any flours or breadcrumbs. Just double-check your chicken broth’s label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Wrap-Up
Cooking garlic butter chicken broccoli isn’t just about making a meal; it’s about creating an experience. Each bite is a testament to simplicity and flavor, culminating in a delicious dish that feels both comforting and exciting. You might just find it becoming a repeat guest at your dining table.
From the lovely aroma of garlic buttery goodness to the sizzling sound of chicken in the skillet, there’s magic in every step. The connection to ingredients is real. So grab your apron, summon your kitchen prowess, and bring this scrumptious dish to life. Your dinner companions will high-five you for it—or at the very least, compliment your culinary skills. Now, go on; it’s time to enjoy your masterpiece!
