If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful meal that feels both fresh and comforting, then the Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need in your weeknight dinner rotation. This dish combines juicy, herb-seasoned chicken strips with burstingly sweet cherry tomatoes and crisp broccoli, all tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It not only delivers on taste but also presents a colorful plate that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Whether you’re cooking for two or simply craving wholesome, satisfying food, this recipe is a total winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the fragrant garlic and aromatic Italian herbs to the bright acidity of lemon juice, each component works harmoniously to elevate this dish beyond ordinary.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips: These cook quickly and absorb the herbs beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its signature rich, savory aroma.
- 2 tbsp butter: For a silky sauce that coats chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden brown.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): A fragrant blend that adds classic Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous lift at the end.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the savory elements.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds crunch, color, and a nutritious component.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brings brightness and a light tang that awakens the dish.
How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. This simple step is crucial as it seasons the meat thoroughly, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips, cooking them until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. This searing locks in moisture and flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. As it melts, stir in the minced garlic and the remaining Italian herbs. Let this fragrant mixture sauté gently for about a minute to release the flavors without burning the garlic.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Add the cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté them just until the tomatoes start to blister and the broccoli reaches a tender-crisp texture. This keeps the vegetables vibrant and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Toss everything gently to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the garlicky, buttery sauce, and heated through for another minute or so.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your plate with a little extra chopped fresh parsley or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese also makes a fantastic garnish, adding a subtle salty richness that complements the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For something lighter, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely presentation, plate the chicken strips over a bed of quinoa or couscous, arranging the cherry tomatoes and broccoli around the edges for a colorful, inviting look. You can also stuff the chicken and veggies into a warm pita pocket for a handheld option perfect for casual meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe should be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days, making for a convenient, ready-to-eat lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save leftovers for longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat or use the microwave. Adding a splash of water or a small knob of butter can help revive the sauce’s luscious texture, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap broccoli for green beans, asparagus, or even zucchini. The key is to use vegetables that can hold their texture when sautéed, so they complement the chicken and tomatoes nicely.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this entire recipe is naturally gluten-free as no gluten-containing ingredients are used. Just be sure to check any packaged herbs or spices for potential cross-contamination.
Can I prepare this recipe for more servings?
Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use a larger skillet or cook the chicken and vegetables in batches to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley on hand?
You can substitute dried parsley, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a different but equally delightful twist.
How can I make the dish more spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and herbs for a gentle kick. For more heat, you can also toss in some chopped fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that’s satisfying, colorful, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors that never get old. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve to friends. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how its simple ingredients magically turn into a deliciously comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Broccoli, cooked in a skillet with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), divided
Sauce and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs evenly to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and sear them until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Herbs: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic along with the remaining dried Italian herbs. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to blister and the broccoli becomes tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Warm and Serve: Allow the entire mixture to warm through for one minute and then serve hot for a fresh, herbaceous meal.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for more juiciness.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta to make it a complete meal.
- Ensure broccoli florets are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
