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Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli

A quick and budget-friendly skillet dinner featuring seared chicken, bright broccoli, and a glossy garlic-butter sauce, ready in under 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Chicken thighs can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Frozen broccoli is acceptable.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Use room-temperature butter for better mixing.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Watch closely to avoid browning.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice Adds brightness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for added heat.
  • to taste Salt Season according to preference.
  • to taste Black pepper Season according to preference.
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame seeds Optional for garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped Optional for garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  • Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add to the hot skillet in a single layer.
  • Sauté for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  • Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet and stir in the broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
  • Discard any excess water.

Cooking

  • Reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter. When it melts, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the sauce is uniform.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the pieces in the garlic-butter sauce and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  • Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the pan until everything is evenly coated.

Serving

  • Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. You can freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Keyword Chicken and Broccoli, Garlic Butter Chicken, Quick Recipes, Skillet Dinner, weeknight meals