Introduction
Welcome to a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a rich garlic butter sauce! This Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones. Each bite offers a creamy, buttery essence, making it a dish you’ll want to return to time and again. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will enhance the flavors beautifully!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, letting it get nice and hot.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have a lovely golden brown color.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt, watching as it turns into a beautiful golden liquid.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful to stir often and avoid burning the garlic!
- Next, toss in the broccoli florets, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender and bright green, bringing a wonderful crunch to the dish.
- Now, return the chicken to the skillet, making sure to coat each piece well with that rich garlic butter sauce.
- Cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through and combined.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
To enhance the flavor even more, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving. This will brighten up the creamy butter sauce and complement the garlic beautifully. Additionally, feel free to swap the broccoli with your favorite vegetables or serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses sautéing — a quick cooking method that retains the wonderful textures and flavors of the ingredients. By cooking the chicken and broccoli in the same skillet after removing the chicken, you’re able to build up the depth of flavor in the garlic butter sauce, making every bite truly special.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that wraps you in comfort with each bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner, it’s sure to please not just your taste buds but also those you share it with. Enjoy this flavorful meal with your family and friends, and watch as they come back for seconds!