Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with rich garlic butter, savory crispy bacon, and a medley of fresh vegetables like spinach and broccoli. It’s easy to prepare and brings vibrant flavors to your table. The delightful mix of textures makes it ideal for family dinners or special celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter and crispy bacon creates an irresistible taste that you’ll crave.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables like spinach and broccoli, it’s a balanced meal that supports your health.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet—less mess, more enjoyment!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having the correct equipment can make your cooking smoother and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting ingredients quicker and safer, enhancing your overall prep time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skillet
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 45 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups baby spinach (or regular spinach, chopped)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Potatoes
- 2 cups golden potatoes, halved and roasted/boiled until tender
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Chop the spinach and broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside but keep some drippings in the pan for flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Add unsalted butter to the skillet with bacon drippings. Once melted, place chicken breasts in the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sear each side until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes per side).
Step 4: Add Garlic and Veggies
Once chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds before adding spinach and broccoli. Cook until just wilted.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet along with roasted or boiled potatoes. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
This delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Over Rice: Serve the chicken skillet over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- In a Wrap: Roll the chicken and veggies in a tortilla for a quick and tasty wrap. Add some fresh salsa for extra flavor.
- On a Salad: Top mixed greens with the chicken and veggies for a healthier option. Drizzle with your favorite dressing.
- With Crusty Bread: Pair the skillet dish with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- As Part of a Platter: Create a colorful platter by adding your chicken skillet alongside cheeses and crackers for an appetizer spread.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
Perfecting this dish is all about timing and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet shines.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They enhance flavor and texture significantly.
- Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Pound them slightly if needed.
- Balance Flavors: Adjust the garlic and butter amounts according to your taste preference. More garlic adds depth, while more butter gives richness.
- Sauté Properly: Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing; this allows everything to cook evenly and develop that golden color.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adding salt or pepper at different stages can elevate the flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet makes for a complete meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic pair perfectly with the rich chicken dish.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch without overpowering other flavors.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory notes of the skillet beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides fiber and protein, making it an excellent healthy side option.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and adds texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements of the skillet dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich garlic butter chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes offer a delightful balance beside savory flavors in your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Ingredient Substitutions: Failing to swap pork products with chicken or turkey can lead to an undesired flavor profile. Always use the recommended alternatives for a delicious dish.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Omitting fresh parsley diminishes the dish’s flavor. Always include herbs for extra freshness and aroma.
- Not Preparing Vegetables Properly: Cutting broccoli or potatoes unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking. Ensure uniform pieces for even doneness and texture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Overlooking the seasoning can result in bland food. Don’t forget to season your dish adequately throughout the cooking process.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
- Use a freezer-safe container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Bacon, Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet without Bacon?
You can! Substitute bacon with more vegetables or use a plant-based alternative for added flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for garlic?
If you don’t have garlic available, shallots or garlic powder can be used as alternatives. They deliver a similar aromatic quality.
How do I customize the Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference. You can also adjust spices to suit your taste.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine! Just ensure it is thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is not only tasty but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors paired with colorful veggies!
Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Spinach, Broccoli & Potatoes
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with fresh spinach, crisp broccoli, and golden potatoes. This comforting one-pan dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. The rich garlic butter sauce ties everything together beautifully, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. Enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups golden potatoes, halved
Instructions
- Wash and chop the spinach and broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds before incorporating the spinach and broccoli. Cook until just wilted.
- Stir in roasted or boiled potatoes and mix well to combine all ingredients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Leave a Comment