Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings warmth to your dinner table. The tender chicken and fresh broccoli are coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies in your meal.

Why You Will Love This Dish

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s easy to make and uses everyday ingredients. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time. The flavors are deliciously simple, making it family-friendly. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make This Dish

Making Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli is straightforward. You’ll start by cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown, then steam the broccoli to keep it crisp. Finally, you’ll bring everything together in a rich garlic sauce that adds a punch of flavor. It’s as simple as sautéing, steaming, and mixing.

What You Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy meal:

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)
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is golden and thoroughly cooked. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup water and broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Discard excess water.
Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the pan. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Add soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir to fully combine.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to infuse flavors.
Gently fold in steamed broccoli until evenly mixed and well-coated with sauce.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped parsley, if using. Serve warm as is or with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

How to Serve This Dish

You can serve Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli in various ways. It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even on its own for a lighter meal. For added flavor, consider squeezing a little more lemon juice on top. It’s also perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

How to Store This Dish

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or pop it in the microwave until heated through.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh broccoli for the best texture.
Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding the sauce.
Feel free to adjust the garlic according to your taste.
For a little heat, include the red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy sauce.
Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day!

Variations & Swaps

Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for a cheesier flavor.
Use asparagus or green beans instead of broccoli for variety.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broccoli separately and combine them just before serving. The garlic sauce can also be made ahead. Just reheat everything together when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Allow it to cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I reheat it?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen up the sauce. It can also be microwaved; just cover it for about 2–3 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed through.

Can I swap the soy sauce?
Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a different flavor. Adjust the salt accordingly, as these can be less salty than regular soy sauce.

What should I serve with this dish?
It goes great with steamed rice, quinoa, or a light salad. You can also serve it with pasta or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.