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Garlic butter chicken broccoli in skillet with golden chicken pieces and bright green broccoli coated in silky butter sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli

One-pan garlic butter chicken and broccoli featuring tender chicken bites and crisp broccoli sauteed with fragrant garlic in a silky butter sauce, ready in about 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 3 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1 lb total, cut into 1-inch 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 freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds optional, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer (don't overcrowd), season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until no pink remains in the center. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup water and broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Pour out any remaining water.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the pan. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Return chicken to skillet and toss in sauce for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Gently fold in steamed broccoli until everything is well-coated with garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, let chicken sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes before flipping. Don't skip the steaming step for broccoli as it ensures perfect texture. Store leftovers in airtight container after cooling completely for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water. Note that broccoli will soften more when reheated.