Name: Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 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; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional); 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Introduction

This Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken bites and crisp broccoli are tossed in a savory garlic butter sauce with bright hints of soy and lemon. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and simple to prepare.

A white bowl filled with bright green broccoli florets mixed with golden-brown, crispy chicken pieces, both coated in a light glossy sauce. Small bits of red chili and white sesame seeds are scattered evenly on top, adding pops of color. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled over everything, giving a fresh look. A metal spoon rests on the side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 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

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup of water and broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Discard any excess water.

Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Step 4: Add soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine evenly.

Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 6: Gently fold in the steamed broccoli until well mixed and coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm on its own or over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice.

Tips & Variations

For juicier chicken, substitute thighs cut into pieces instead of breasts.

If dairy-free, replace butter with additional olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Swap broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, asparagus, or snap peas for seasonal variation.

For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili crisp.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out, rather than using a microwave. This dish also freezes well; freeze cooked chicken and broccoli separately from garnishes, then thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to steam frozen broccoli separately to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or incorporate chili paste or fresh chopped chili when cooking the garlic to enhance the heat level.