Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli served on a plate

Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli is a delicious and quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and loads of nutrients from the broccoli. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich flavor, making this dish very satisfying. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 60 ml water (for steaming broccoli)

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

  2. In the same skillet, add 60 ml water and broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until broccoli is slightly tender but crisp. Drain off any excess water.

  3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.

  4. Stir in soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the garlic butter. Mix thoroughly.

  5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss in the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes to evenly coat.

  6. Add steamed broccoli to the skillet and stir to combine all components.

  7. Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot on its own or with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli can be served in several ways. Enjoy it on its own as a healthy dish, or serve it over rice or pasta for a more filling meal. Cauliflower rice is also a great low-carb option. You can garnish it with extra parsley or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

If you have leftovers, let them cool down first. Store the chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

  • Make sure not to overcook the broccoli. It should be bright green and slightly crunchy.
  • Adjust the level of garlic and spice based on your taste preference.
  • For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the garlic butter sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Feel free to change up the protein by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as frozen veggies may require a little longer to cook through.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

3. Can I add cheese to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding some grated parmesan or mozzarella on top right before serving can enhance the flavor even more.