If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in a flash, this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chicken pieces seasoned just right, sizzling alongside vibrant broccoli florets and sweet cherry tomatoes, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy blanket of melted mozzarella and cream cheese. It’s comfort food with a fresh, wholesome twist—perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly satisfying and simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this recipe’s incredible taste. Each component shines on its own but also intertwines beautifully to create a creamy, garlicky, and colorful delight that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to your taste buds.
- Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The main protein, cooking quickly and soaking up all the seasonings.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth richness while helping to brown the chicken perfectly.
- Broccoli florets: For a fresh crunch and vibrant green color that balances the rich cheese.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings warmth and a touch of herbaceous depth.
- Garlic cloves, minced: A must-have for that irresistible garlicky aroma and bold flavor.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness add a fresh pop to every bite.
- Fresh spinach: Wilts down to add earthiness and a subtle hint of green freshness.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, creating gooey, creamy layers of cheesy goodness.
- Cream cheese: Adds silky creaminess that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Cook the Chicken
Start by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Throw in the bite-sized chicken pieces, and season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. As the chicken sizzles away, it develops a golden crust that seals in the juiciness. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is beautifully cooked through and ready to soak up more flavors.
Step 2: Add the Garlic for Aroma
Next, stir in the minced garlic. The smell will instantly fill your kitchen with that classic garlicky warmth. Cook it just long enough—about 1 minute—so the garlic becomes fragrant without burning, releasing all those irresistible flavors that form the heart of this dish.
Step 3: Toss in the Broccoli and Tomatoes
Now, add the broccoli florets and halved grape or cherry tomatoes straight into the skillet. These fresh ingredients brighten the dish, adding crunch and a juicy tang. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes, just until the broccoli turns tender but still vibrant, and the tomatoes start to release their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Introduce the Greens and Creamy Cheeses
Toss in the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the cheeses melt into a dreamy, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and veggies. This step is what transforms the dish into a luscious, comforting masterpiece you’ll want to savor every bite of.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once everything is perfectly melted and combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve up your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe right away to enjoy that gooey, cheesy goodness at its very best.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbal note while also giving the dish a pop of green color that makes every plate look picture-perfect. For a little extra zing, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze works wonders against the creamy backdrop.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy garlic mashed potatoes, a simple buttery pasta, or even a crusty piece of bread to soak up the cheesy sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style feel. Alternatively, layer the mixture over cooked quinoa or rice in a bowl to make a wholesome, layered meal that’s as appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep very well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals until warmed through, just be mindful not to overcook, which could dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap broccoli for vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time so they stay tender yet crisp.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use mascarpone or ricotta for a similar creamy texture that complements the mozzarella nicely.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella alternatives, you can enjoy a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor or creaminess.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken pieces should be golden brown and firm to the touch; an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures they’re safe and perfectly cooked.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe is ideal for meal prep since it holds its flavor and texture well over a few days refrigerated, making lunches or dinners hassle-free and tasty.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen because it’s so quick yet packed with layers of comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, it’s a dish you can rely on to deliver deliciousness with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Melted Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breast pieces are sautéed with fragrant garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh vegetables including broccoli, tomatoes, and spinach. Cream cheese and shredded mozzarella add a creamy, cheesy finish, making this dish both comforting and nutritious. Ready in just 20 minutes and serving 4, it’s an easy way to enjoy a balanced dinner packed with protein and veggies.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Cheeses
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken. This ensures the chicken will sear nicely and develop a golden crust.
- Cook chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. This step allows the garlic to release its fragrant aroma without burning.
- Cook vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and halved tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green, ensuring the tomatoes soften slightly.
- Add spinach and cheeses: Mix in the fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce that coats all ingredients.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the dish immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy and savory flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer more tender, juicy meat.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a light cream cheese alternative.
- If broccoli florets are large, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Adding a splash of chicken broth before adding the spinach can create a bit more sauce and prevent sticking.
- Serve with cauliflower rice or whole-grain pasta for a more filling meal.
