Save This Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli is a quick, one-pan meal packed with flavor and ready in just 15 minutes! Tender, juicy chicken bites are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with crisp broccoli, creating a healthy, low-carb, and satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
I first made this for my family during a busy workweek, and everyone was amazed at how flavorful and satisfying it was in such little time. It has since become our go-to dinner when we want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Broccoli: 2 cups fresh florets
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Sesame seeds: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped parsley: 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Steam broccoli:
- In the same pan, add 1/4 cup water and the broccoli florets. Cover and let steam for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Remove excess water.
- Make garlic butter sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the pan. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add flavorings:
- Add soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Combine chicken&broccoli:
- Return cooked chicken to the pan. Toss in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is well coated. Stir in the broccoli to mix evenly.
- Garnish & serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm on its own, over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.
Save My kids always ask for seconds of this chicken & broccoli, and it's become our family favorite even for picky eaters. Sharing this dish always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving over rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter meal. A squeeze of extra lemon adds brightness and freshness to the flavor.
Variations
Substitute chicken with shrimp or use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Add other vegetables like snap peas for extra color and crunch.
Storage
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Save The rich garlic butter sauce brings everything together for easy yet impressive meals. Make it your own with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese.
Recipe Help
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be substituted. Steam it slightly before adding to the pan to ensure optimal texture.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Turkey breast, tofu, or shrimp can replace chicken for variety and different dietary needs.
- → How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
Cook chicken over medium-high heat until golden and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking for best results.
- → Can I make this meal ahead?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate. Reheat gently in a pan to restore texture and flavor before serving.
- → Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely. Chicken and broccoli create a satisfying, low-carb option, especially when served without grains.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
Pair with rice, cauliflower rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for balanced meals.