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Healthy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli With Spinach – Better Than Takeout!

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Calories: 290

Notes

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavor-rich skillet:
  • 2 generously sized chicken breasts, thinly sliced to ensure fast, even searing
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced (feel free to go heavy if desired)
  •  olive oil
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched or fresh
  • Use ½ tsp sea salt, or season to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon Black pepper 
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth without heat)
  • Grated zest from half a lemon — not essential, but it introduces a refreshing citrus spark that rounds out the dish beautifully
  • 1 teaspoon of gluten-free tamari — or use low-sodium soy sauce if gluten isn't a concern

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a wide skillet. Add your sliced chicken breast. Let it brown for 3–4 minutes on each side without stirring too much — color equals flavor.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Once the chicken starts to caramelize, toss in your garlic. Let it gently sizzle until the garlic softens and its aroma fills the kitchen — usually around half a minute. Stir continuously to avoid bitterness.

Step 3: Toss in the Broccoli

Add broccoli florets. If they’re fresh, let them steam a little with a splash of water. If blanched, just heat through for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Switch off the heat and gently stir in the spinach right away, allowing it to soften naturally without overcooking. The gentle warmth of the pan will soften the spinach just enough, keeping its color vivid and texture light.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Drizzle with tamari or soy sauce. Finish with a final toss to bring everything together — and just like that, dinner is ready to serve!