Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli is my top rescue dinner when life gets hectic and I want something homemade but not fussy. The chicken turns beautifully golden in a garlic butter glaze while broccoli soaks up all the savory flavor. Everything comes together in one pan and finishes in just about 15 minutes. This is the kind of meal that satisfies those comfort food cravings without derailing your healthy habits.

I first whipped up this meal when my youngest started after school activities and I felt stretched for time. It has since become the secret weapon for keeping everyone happy on those wild weeknights.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean cut works fast and gets juicy when cut into small pieces Always look for chicken that is firm and a pale pink for the best quality

• Fresh broccoli florets: Brings color crunch and healthy nutrients Pick heads that are deep green and tight with no yellowing

• Unsalted butter: Makes the sauce rich and allows you to control the saltiness Choose real butter for authentic flavor

• Olive oil: Adds more depth and helps the chicken brown Look for extra virgin for best taste

• Garlic cloves minced: Brings bold aroma and spice Make sure your garlic is plump and firm not sprouting for the freshest punch

• Soy sauce: Lends savoriness and balance Go for a naturally brewed version for clean flavor

• Lemon juice: A splash of brightness that wakes up the whole dish Go for freshly squeezed if you have a lemon

• Red pepper flakes: Optional for a gentle bit of heat Use fresh flakes for the boldest color and zing

• Salt and pepper: Used to draw out and balance flavors I always taste as I go for perfect seasoning

• Sesame seeds: Optional for garnish and a nutty finish Choose white sesame seeds that are unbroken and fresh

• Chopped parsley: Optional for a burst of herby color Use flat leaf for stronger taste and visual pop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli:

Cut chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and separate broccoli into small florets so they cook evenly

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add chicken in a single layer season well with salt and pepper Cook for 5 to 6 minutes flipping now and then so every side gets golden Remove chicken once fully cooked and set aside

Steam the Broccoli:

In the same pan pour in a quarter cup of water Add broccoli cover with a lid or large plate Let it steam for 2 to 3 minutes until broccoli turns bright green and is just tender with a little crunch Drain away any leftover water

Build the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Lower heat to medium low Melt butter directly in the pan Once bubbling scatter in minced garlic Stir and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant Takes care not to let garlic brown so it stays sweet

Flavor the Sauce:

Add soy sauce lemon juice and red pepper flakes if using Give everything a good stir to combine for a tangy spicy base

Toss Chicken and Broccoli in Sauce:

Return cooked chicken to the pan Toss until the chicken is evenly coated in garlic butter sauce Add broccoli and fold everything together so each piece gets saucy

Finish and Serve:

Take the pan off the heat Sprinkle on sesame seeds and parsley if using for extra beauty Serve warm either on its own or pile over rice pasta or cauliflower rice

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Broccoli is my favorite here since it soaks up all that garlicky buttery goodness. I remember the first time I made it my kids actually requested seconds for the broccoli instead of the chicken and that is a rare win in my kitchen.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will last up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the chicken from drying out. I find splashing a spoonful of water into the pan while reheating helps restore moisture and keep things saucy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless chicken thighs for even juicier bites if you like dark meat. Swap broccoli for cauliflower florets or green beans to change things up based on what is in the fridge. Fresh lemon juice can be switched for a splash of vinegar in a pinch but lemon truly livens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines on its own but is also great over cooked rice or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal. I love it alongside a crisp green salad or spooned over noodles for a comfort bowl. Sprinkle on extra parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for the brightest flavor.

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Cultural Context

Garlic butter sauces are classic in European cuisine especially in quick weeknight stir fries. This recipe pulls inspiration from both Asian and Western flavors with the addition of soy sauce and lemon. It is a perfect example of how different kitchens around the world find ways to bring maximum flavor with minimal time.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the chicken tender and juicy?

Cut chicken into even pieces and cook over medium-high heat without overcooking. Remove it once golden and cooked through to preserve moisture.

→ Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?

Yes, try cauliflower, bell pepper, or snap peas for different textures and flavors while keeping a quick cooking time.

→ What’s the best way to add extra flavor?

Boost flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or basil, increase garlic, or finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving.

→ Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely, the combination of chicken and broccoli in a buttery sauce is naturally low in carbohydrates when not served over grains.

→ How do I prevent the broccoli from overcooking?

Steam the florets briefly so they stay crisp and green, then quickly combine with the other components to keep them vibrant.

→ Can this be made ahead for meal prep?

Yes, store cooled portions in airtight containers and reheat gently to maintain the dish’s texture and flavors.