When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Keto Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach, it was during one of those weeks where I was desperately searching for something new and exciting to bring to the dinner table. My husband had recently embarked on a keto diet, and finding dishes that were both delicious and compliant was proving to be a bit of a challenge. But this recipe, with its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, turned out to be a game-changer.
Picture this: a busy Wednesday evening, kids finishing up homework, and the unmistakable aroma of garlic and Italian seasoning wafting through the house. As I sautéed the chicken in olive oil, the scent drew everyone into the kitchen. The addition of broccoli and spinach not only added a vibrant pop of color but also packed in extra vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome meal for the entire family.
One of the things I love most about this dish is its versatility. On lazy weekends, I might tweak it slightly by adding a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor or swap out the mozzarella for a sharp cheddar to give it a different twist. And while the original recipe calls for serving it with pasta or rice, we often opt for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep things keto-friendly.
This meal isn’t just a hit at home. I’ve prepared it for a potluck with friends and even as a quick dinner during a cabin getaway. Each time, it’s met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It’s these shared moments around food that remind me why I started this blog – to inspire others to create and enjoy delicious meals that bring people together.
How to Make The Keto Garlic Chicken with Broccoli & Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into 1” pieces)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup tomatoes (chopped)
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, or your favorite melting cheese)
Directions
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and salt & pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes, broccoli florets, spinach, shredded cheese, and cream cheese. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately with your choice of cooked pasta, rice, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.
FAQs:
What can I use instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs, turkey breast, or even shrimp. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is cooked thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. Additionally, you can substitute the cream cheese with coconut cream for a creamy texture.
What side dishes pair well with Keto Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of low-carb side dishes. You can serve it with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a simple green salad. For a non-keto option, consider serving it with cooked pasta or rice.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize this dish by adding other low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pan along with the broccoli and spinach.
Keto Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts cut into 1'' pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional
- salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, or your favorite melting cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and salt & pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes, broccoli florets, spinach, shredded cheese, and cream cheese. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately with your choice of cooked pasta, rice, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.
