Easy Garlic Chicken with Veggies for Dinner

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and packed with wholesome goodness, this Garlic Chicken with Veggies recipe is your new go-to dinner! Combining juicy chicken, tender crunchy vegetables, and a rich garlic-infused sauce, it’s a wholesome dish that comes together in just minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this simple yet satisfying plate is proof that delicious and nutritious can easily go hand in hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Balanced Nutrition: Combines lean protein and fresh veggies for a healthy, satisfying meal.
• Flavor Packed: The garlic infusion adds an irresistible depth to every bite.
• One-Pan Cleanup: Minimal dishes to wash, making dinner hassle-free.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Garlic Chicken with Veggies recipe plays a crucial role to deliver that perfect combination of texture, color, and savory taste. Using simple pantry staples and fresh produce ensures this meal is both accessible and satisfying.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Lean protein that cooks quickly and remains juicy.
• Fresh garlic cloves: The star of the dish, infusing it with aromatic richness.
• Bell peppers: Adds vibrant color and a crisp sweetness.
• Broccoli florets: Introduces a nice crunch and boosts nutrition.
• Carrots: Offering subtle sweetness and a tender texture.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing flavors with healthy fats.
• Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and balances the garlic’s sharpness.
• Lemon juice or zest: Brings a fresh acidity that brightens the dish.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Dried oregano or thyme (optional): For subtle herbal notes if you want extra depth.

Variations for Garlic Chicken with Veggies

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Swapping or adding ingredients can transform the dish while keeping the core deliciousness intact.

• Swap chicken for tofu: A great vegetarian alternative that absorbs the garlic sauce beautifully.
• Add mushrooms: For an earthy flavor and juicy texture.
• Use zucchini or snap peas: If you want to change up the veggie lineup with a lighter crunch.
• Spice it up: Throw in red pepper flakes or diced chili for a bit of heat and excitement.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with teriyaki or balsamic glaze for a different twist.

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Veggies

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing the vegetables into uniform chunks for even cooking. Mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor during sautéing.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in your garlic and cook it until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the vegetables and sauté until tender-crisp, about 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in soy sauce and a splash of lemon juice, then mix everything well to coat evenly. Cook together for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Chicken with Veggies

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh cloves provide more vibrant and intense flavor than pre-minced varieties.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure browning and avoid steaming the chicken or veggies.
• Cut veggies evenly: Helps everything cook at the same speed for perfect texture.
• Rest the chicken: Let cooked chicken rest briefly before cutting to keep it juicy.
• Adjust seasoning last: Taste before serving and tweak salt, pepper, or acidity as needed.

How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Veggies

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top not only adds a pop of color but a refreshing contrast to the garlicky depth. Thin wedges of lemon on the side brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, or warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A simple green salad or steamed greens complement the meal with extra freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken and veggies over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or stuff into whole-grain wraps with a dollop of yogurt sauce for a fun twist on dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Garlic Chicken with Veggies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy quick, healthy meals later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and veggies tender without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen veggies can be a convenient alternative; just cook them a bit longer to ensure they reach the perfect tender-crisp texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the Garlic Chicken with Veggies entirely gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe is mild and friendly for all palates, but you can easily add chili flakes or fresh peppers to give it some kick if you like heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Definitely! Both cuts work well; just watch the cooking time as breasts can cook faster and might dry out if overcooked.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you’re avoiding soy, tamari, coconut aminos, or a mix of Worcestershire sauce and water can add a similar umami flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort and simplicity of a good Garlic Chicken with Veggies dinner. Quick to make, easy to customize, and bursting with fresh garlic goodness, this recipe embraces wholesome eating without fuss. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds and your busy schedule will thank you!

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