WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Are you ready to enjoy a tasty and simple meal? Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli is here to satisfy your cravings. This dish combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and garlic-infused butter for a quick, flavorful dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how delicious it tastes. Follow my simple steps, and impress your family with this delightful blend of flavors. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal fast.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs infuses the chicken and broccoli with an irresistible flavor that elevates a simple dish.
- Nutrient-Rich: With lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious, making it a wholesome choice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or quinoa for a filling meal, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
In this dish, the chicken offers a tender base. The broccoli adds a pop of green and crunch. Butter gives us a rich, creamy flavor. Garlic brings a warm, savory taste that makes everything better.
Seasonings and Extras
– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme lift the flavor. Soy sauce adds a savory note, while lemon juice brightens the whole dish. Together, they make every bite special and balanced.
Optional Serving Suggestions
– Cooked rice
– Quinoa
Serving this dish over rice or quinoa adds heartiness. Both options help soak up all the tasty garlic butter sauce. You can choose what you like best!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Next, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them golden and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Cooking the Broccoli
In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them to turn bright green and get slightly tender. This method keeps the broccoli crisp and tasty.
Combining the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mix things up! Add unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, soy sauce, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir until the butter melts and the garlic smells great. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes. You can adjust the seasonings with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste. Serve warm over rice or quinoa for a delicious meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Chicken
To avoid overcooking the chicken, keep an eye on the heat. Cook on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. This way, your chicken stays juicy. For a golden sear, don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping.
Enhancing Flavor
Herbs add great taste. I recommend using fresh rosemary and thyme. These herbs pair well with garlic and butter. If you only have dried herbs, use less. Fresh herbs are strong, so adjust according to your taste.
Presentation Ideas
Garnishing makes your dish pop. Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a nice touch. Lemon wedges on the side add color and flavor. Serve in a large bowl for a family-style meal. This makes sharing easy and fun.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs. Always opt for fresh when possible for a more vibrant taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: To maintain a bright green color and crisp texture, cook the broccoli until just tender. It will continue to cook slightly once combined with the chicken.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking. This ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after cooking to keep the flavors and textures at their peak.

Variations
Vegetable Alternatives
You can switch up the broccoli for other veggies. Try green beans, bell peppers, or snap peas. These choices add color and crunch. Feel free to use what’s fresh at your local market. Seasonal produce often tastes better and adds variety.
Protein Swaps
If you want a change, use shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice flavor. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or chickpeas. They soak up the garlic butter well and keep the dish hearty.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. This keeps the flavor rich without the gluten. For a low-carb twist, serve it over cauliflower rice or skip the grains entirely. This way, you still enjoy a filling meal without the carbs.
Storage Info
Cooling and Storing
After cooking Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli, let it cool. This helps keep the food safe. Place the chicken and broccoli in a shallow dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Store it in the fridge. This dish stays fresh for about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Tips
When you reheat, keep the chicken moist. Use a microwave-safe dish to warm it up. Add a splash of water or broth for steam. Cover the dish with a lid or a damp paper towel. Heat at medium power. This method helps prevent drying out. Aim for about 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through. You can also use a skillet over low heat. This method adds a nice texture.
Freezing Options
To freeze leftovers, first cool them down. Portion the chicken and broccoli into airtight containers. Leave some space for expansion. You can also use freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air before sealing. This helps avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat using the microwave or skillet, as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal even later!
FAQs
How long does Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli last in the fridge?
Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The flavors blend well, making leftovers taste even better.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it and drain excess water before cooking. Frozen broccoli cooks faster, so watch it closely to avoid mushiness.
What can I substitute for butter in this dish?
You can use olive oil or dairy-free margarine. Both options keep the dish rich and tasty. If you want a different flavor, try using ghee or coconut oil.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. It stores well and reheats nicely. Make a big batch, divide it into portions, and enjoy it throughout the week.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, include red pepper flakes or sriracha. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or fresh chopped chili peppers. Adjust the amount to fit your taste.
This article covered a simple and tasty garlic butter chicken and broccoli recipe. We explored the main ingredients and helpful tips for cooking and flavor. I also shared fun variations and storage tips for leftovers.
Cooking can be fun and easy. Use this guide to create a delicious meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients, and make this dish your ow
Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli Delight
A delicious and easy-to-make chicken dish with garlic butter and broccoli.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 450 kcal
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- for serving cooked rice or quinoa (optional)
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
Add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, soy sauce, and lemon juice to the skillet with the broccoli. Stir the mixture until the butter melts and the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Serve warm over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa, if desired, and garnish with additional fresh herbs for presentation.
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish.
Keyword broccoli, butter, chicken, garlic, quick meal
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?