After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen, but I still crave something comforting and flavorful. That’s exactly why this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli recipe became my go-to. The sizzle of garlic hitting warm butter instantly fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, promising a meal that’s both quick and satisfying. With tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli cooked to perfection in one pan, it’s a delicious, wholesome dinner that fits perfectly into even the busiest evenings. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this easy recipe proves that home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated to taste incredible.
Why choose this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?
Speed and simplicity make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights, delivering a homemade meal in just 15 minutes. Flavor-packed garlic butter infuses the chicken and broccoli, creating a rich, savory experience without extra fuss. One-pan convenience means minimal cleanup, while healthy, balanced ingredients satisfy both taste buds and nutrition goals. Plus, its versatility lets you easily customize with your favorite herbs or sides, making it a crowd-pleaser every time!
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – thinly sliced for quick, even cooking in this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli recipe.
- Broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, they add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
- Garlic cloves – minced to release that signature aromatic punch essential to this dish.
- Unsalted butter – melts into a luscious sauce that coats the chicken and veggies perfectly.
- Olive oil – helps achieve a beautiful golden sear on the chicken without burning the garlic.
For Seasoning and Flavor
- Salt – enhances the natural flavors throughout the dish.
- Black pepper – freshly cracked for a subtle heat and depth.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – just a pinch adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley – finely chopped to sprinkle on top for a touch of freshness and color.
How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli
- Season: Place thin chicken slices on a cutting board, pat dry, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly to ensure a perfect sear and flavor.
- Heat the Pan: Warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until butter foams, about 1 minute, creating the perfect base for cooking the garlic, building the base for our 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Recipe.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pan, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant and just turning golden brown, filling the kitchen with that irresistible aroma.
- Cook Chicken: Lay seasoned chicken in a single layer, sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring juicy slices every time.
- Add Broccoli: Toss in broccoli florets, stirring to coat them fully in garlic butter, then cover and cook 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender and vibrant green.
- Finish and Garnish: Uncover, sprinkle red pepper flakes if using, then toss gently to combine flavors, remove from heat and finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Optional: Squeeze lemon juice over top for a bright flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to regain moisture.
-
Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. For best results, separate the chicken and broccoli before freezing to maintain texture.
-
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a little butter to bring back the original flavor of your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli.
-
Serving Tips: Pair with freshly cooked rice or pasta when reheating for a quick, satisfying meal that’s just as delicious the second time around!
Make Ahead Options
These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken and broccoli and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain freshness and quality, keep the minced garlic and seasonings separate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply heat the olive oil and butter in the pan, sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, and then add the prepped chicken. Cook as directed, toss in the broccoli, and you’ll have a home-cooked dinner that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
What to Serve with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli?
Elevate your mealtime with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice soaks up the savory garlic butter sauce perfectly, making every bite delightful.
-
Garlic Bread: Golden, crusty garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and echoes the dish’s flavors, ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
-
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: These potatoes provide a satisfying crunch and a creamy interior, balancing the tender chicken with extra heartiness on your plate.
-
Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal, adding a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and smooth, they enhance the comfort of your meal and pair excellently with the rich garlic butter sauce.
-
Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles offer an alternative that keeps things fresh and complements the savory chicken wonderfully without overpowering it.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly tangy drinks help cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the garlic butter, making them perfect companions.
-
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note; this rich, creamy dessert creates a wonderful juxtaposition with the savory main dish, satisfying any sweet tooth.
Expert Tips for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli
- Prep in advance: Thinly slice chicken and mince garlic ahead to speed up cooking without rushing through steps.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in a single layer to get a perfect golden sear and avoid steaming, keeping the texture tender.
- Watch the garlic closely: Garlic can burn quickly—stir constantly and remove from heat if it starts browning too fast to keep flavors smooth.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets stay crisp and vibrant, but if using frozen, thaw and drain well to prevent sogginess in this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli recipe.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Adding parsley at the end brightens the dish and balances the rich garlic butter.
- Customize heat carefully: Add red pepper flakes gradually to match your spice level without overpowering the dish’s savory warmth.
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
-
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens every bite. This extra touch will awaken your taste buds and enhance the dish beautifully.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha while cooking for a spicy garlic butter sauce. This variation adds warmth and creates a satisfying heat that will have you reaching for more.
-
Herb-Infused: Swap regular parsley for fresh basil or cilantro to introduce a whole new flavor profile. These vibrant herbs not only add color but also a garden-fresh taste that livens up the dish.
-
Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. This not only makes the meal heartier but also increases the overall taste and texture variations.
-
Nutty Flavor: Toss in a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving for a delightful crunch and nutty essence. This adds a fantastic textural contrast that elevates the entire dish.
-
Mushroom Medley: Include sliced mushrooms to the pan when cooking the chicken for an earthy flavor. The mushrooms soak up the garlic butter beautifully, enhancing the savory component of the meal.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a richer sauce. This makes the dish extra indulgent while maintaining its delightful comfort-food essence.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the butter for a vegan alternative or olive oil, maintaining all the flavors while keeping it plant-based. This change allows everyone to enjoy the dish without dietary restrictions holding them back.
15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the chicken breasts are the right ripeness and quality for this recipe?
Look for chicken breasts that are firm, smooth, and pinkish in color without any dark spots or odor. Freshness is key to juicy results, so buy from a reliable source and use within 1-2 days of purchase or freeze promptly.
Can I use frozen broccoli, and how should I prepare it for this dish?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well here but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess water that could make the dish soggy. Pat the florets dry with a paper towel for the best texture in this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli recipe.
What’s the best way to store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, toss gently with a bit of butter or olive oil on the stovetop to revive that silky sauce and tender texture — microwave reheating works but can make broccoli mushy.
How do I freeze this recipe without losing flavor or texture?
To freeze, cool the dish completely, then place chicken and broccoli separately in airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible. This method preserves texture and flavor for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with added butter.
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary preferences or allergies?
Definitely! For a dairy-free option, swap butter for coconut oil or olive oil. If you’re sensitive to garlic, reduce the amount or use garlic-infused oil for a gentler flavor. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a versatile choice for many dietary needs.
My garlic sometimes burns and turns bitter; how can I avoid that?
Garlic cooks very quickly and can easily burn, so keep the heat at medium-high but stir constantly once the garlic hits the pan. Remove the pan from heat as soon as the garlic turns light golden—overcooking it turns the flavor bitter and compromises the dish’s balance.
Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli Recipe That Wows
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place thin chicken slices on a cutting board, pat dry, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.
- Warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until butter foams, about 1 minute.
- Add minced garlic to the pan, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant and golden brown.
- Lay seasoned chicken in a single layer, sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Toss in broccoli florets, stirring to coat them in garlic butter, then cover and cook 3–4 minutes.
- Uncover, sprinkle red pepper flakes if using, then toss gently to combine flavors, and finish with fresh parsley.
