This garlic butter chicken with broccoli is my go-to recipe when I need something quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. It brings together juicy chicken bites and vibrant broccoli in a fragrant garlic butter sauce that my family requests at least twice a week.
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Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli
I always keep these ingredients stocked because this recipe has become such a staple in my kitchen. The beauty is that most of these are pantry basics you probably already have, making it perfect for those nights when grocery shopping didn’t happen.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets – I recommend choosing florets with tight, dark green heads
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – My preference is good quality butter for the best flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – In my experience, fresh garlic makes all the difference here
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – I usually opt for low-sodium to control salt levels
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. This recipe moves quickly once you begin, and you’ll want everything within reach.
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of browning), season generously with salt and pepper, and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until no pink remains in the center. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Without cleaning the skillet, add 1/4 cup of water and the broccoli florets to the same pan. Cover immediately with a lid and allow the broccoli to steam for 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green and becomes crisp-tender. You’ll know it’s ready when you can pierce it with a fork but it still has a slight bite. Carefully pour out any remaining water from the pan.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet, swirling it around as it melts. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and just barely golden, not browned.
Step 4: Pour in the soy sauce and lemon juice, then add the red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together for about 15 seconds to create a cohesive sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Gently fold the steamed broccoli back into the pan, tossing everything together until each piece is well-coated with the silky garlic butter sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh parsley before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides depending on your dietary preferences and what you’re craving.
Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The fragrant, slightly sticky texture of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up every bit of that garlic butter sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides the same sauce-absorbing benefit while keeping the meal under 400 calories and adding extra vegetables to your plate.
Buttered Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles tossed with a pat of butter create a comforting, family-friendly base that my kids absolutely devour. The mild flavor lets the garlic butter chicken shine.
Garlic Bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread rolls on the side turns this into an indulgent dinner and gives you something to mop up every last drop of that incredible sauce.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery main dish and rounds out the nutritional profile with additional fiber and vitamins.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent companion, offering comfort food appeal while balancing the bright flavors of lemon and garlic in the chicken.
Keep It Fresh and Delicious
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days after cooling completely. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option for busy weeknights ahead.
When reheating, I recommend using the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out. The broccoli will soften a bit more when reheated, which is completely normal. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but use 50% power and stir halfway through for best results. This dish is also delicious served cold over a bed of mixed greens for a quick lunch salad the next day.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Skip the steaming step and add it directly to the pan after thawing and draining excess moisture thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative, or you can use coconut aminos for a soy-free option that’s slightly sweeter but equally delicious.
How can I make this spicier?
Double the red pepper flakes, add a dash of sriracha to the sauce, or toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking the garlic for an extra kick.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Return chicken to skillet and toss in sauce for 1-2 minutes.
- 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.
