Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli

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Cooking has always been my favorite form of relaxation, especially when the meal is not only nourishing but also simple to make. Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli is one of those dishes I return to again and again. It’s colorful, vibrant, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying without being heavy. The moment the herb-scented chicken hits the skillet and the tomatoes start to blister, the aroma alone is enough to make everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “What’s for dinner?”

I love that this dish looks fancy but takes minimal effort and uses ingredients I almost always have on hand. It’s also a great go-to when I want to keep things healthy without sacrificing taste. The cherry tomatoes add bursts of sweetness, the broccoli brings a bright crunch, and everything is wrapped together in a garlic-herb pan sauce that practically demands to be soaked up with some crusty bread.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli

This dish ticks all the boxes: it’s fast, full of flavor, and beautifully balanced. The herb-garlic chicken is juicy and aromatic, while the sautéed cherry tomatoes bring a touch of acidity and sweetness. Pair it with crisp-tender broccoli and you’ve got a complete meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb, and meal-prep friendly—perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend meal planning.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully. If you prefer darker meat, boneless thighs are a fantastic option too—they’re juicier and a bit more forgiving if slightly overcooked. For a thinner cut, you can slice the breasts in half lengthwise or pound them to an even thickness. This helps ensure they cook evenly and stay moist.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with what you have or catering to dietary needs, this recipe is flexible:

• Chicken: Swap with boneless thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil are wonderful, but dried Italian seasoning, oregano, or thyme also work well.
• Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic paste or powder can substitute in a pinch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or even chopped regular tomatoes can be used. Canned diced tomatoes (drained) work too.
• Broccoli: Cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus are excellent alternatives if broccoli isn’t on hand.
• Butter: If avoiding dairy, olive oil or a vegan butter substitute will maintain richness.

This recipe is easily adaptable without compromising on flavor.

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Ingredients for Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli

• Chicken Breasts: These are the star of the dish, offering a lean, protein-packed base that absorbs the herb and garlic flavors beautifully.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juiciness create a light sauce as they burst during cooking.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color, balancing out the dish nutritionally and visually.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a bold and aromatic backbone to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables, adding depth and richness.
• Butter: A small amount enhances the pan sauce, giving it a silky texture and luxurious taste.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Basil, or a Mix): These lift the entire dish with a garden-fresh flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of each component.
• Lemon Juice (optional): A splash at the end brightens up the entire dish with a bit of tang.

Each ingredient plays an important role in layering flavor and texture, making every bite well-rounded and satisfying.

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. If they are thick, slice them horizontally or pound them to an even thickness. Rinse the broccoli florets and halve the cherry tomatoes if desired for quicker blistering. Mince the garlic finely and chop your fresh herbs.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped herbs. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside, keeping warm.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a touch more oil or a small knob of butter, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 4–5 minutes until they start to soften and blister. Use a spoon to gently press some of them to release their juices.

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Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

While the tomatoes cook, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot or microwave until bright green and just tender—about 4 minutes. You want them crisp, not mushy.

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Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the rest of the butter and remaining herbs. Spoon the tomato-garlic mixture over the chicken and let it all simmer for 1–2 minutes. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Serve hot with the steamed broccoli arranged on the side.

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How Long to Cook Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli

Cooking this dish from start to finish takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Searing the Chicken: 8–10 minutes total (4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness).
• Sautéing Garlic and Tomatoes: 5–6 minutes until tomatoes blister and soften.
• Steaming Broccoli: Around 4 minutes separately (can be done while tomatoes cook).
• Final Simmer & Assembly: 2–3 minutes to meld flavors in the skillet.

Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safely cooked.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli

• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and juicy texture.
• Preheat the Skillet: Let the oil get hot before adding chicken to achieve a golden crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain searing instead of steaming.
• Deglaze with Lemon or Broth: If the pan dries up, a splash of lemon juice or chicken broth will lift the caramelized bits and enhance the sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic and Herbs: These give a noticeably fresher flavor than their dried counterparts.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot so the textures and juices stay vibrant and flavorful.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Chicken Rest Time: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Overcooking the Chicken: This can dry it out quickly. Use a thermometer and remove from heat at 165°F.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: Leads to steaming rather than searing—cook in batches if necessary.
• Using Too Much Garlic: Garlic burns easily and can turn bitter. Add it after searing the chicken, not before.
• Forgetting to Season Properly: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, especially after adding tomatoes and herbs.
• Mushy Broccoli: Don’t over-steam it; aim for bright green and slightly crisp.

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What to Serve With Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for soaking up the herb-garlic pan juices and tomato broth.

Lemon Herb Couscous

Light and fluffy, couscous complements the fresh flavors beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes add richness and balance.

Brown Rice or Quinoa

Nutritious whole grains provide a hearty base without overpowering the dish.

Cauliflower Mash

A low-carb option that still gives a creamy, comforting side.

Fresh Garden Salad

Something light and crisp to contrast the warm, savory chicken and veggies.

Roasted Asparagus or Zucchini

More green veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs work wonderfully.

Pasta Tossed in Olive Oil & Parmesan

Simple, buttery pasta is a cozy companion without stealing the spotlight.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli, follow these tips:

• Refrigerate: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the chicken and tomatoes (avoid freezing broccoli as it may turn mushy) for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too—cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals.

Tip: For best texture, store the broccoli separately if possible and re-steam briefly when reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general nutritional estimate per serving (based on a 4-serving yield):

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: ~36g
• Fat: ~14g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~320mg

These numbers may vary slightly depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, but this dish remains a nutrient-dense, low-carb meal ideal for balanced eating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but it should be fully thawed before cooking to ensure even searing and proper seasoning absorption.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.

What herbs work best for this dish?

Fresh parsley and basil are fantastic. You can also use thyme, oregano, or a pre-mixed Italian herb blend—fresh or dried.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbohydrates and packed with protein and healthy fats. Just avoid serving it with starchy sides.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili when sautéing the garlic to introduce a gentle heat.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can! Cook the chicken and tomatoes ahead, and store separately. Reheat and add steamed broccoli just before serving.

Can I use a different protein?

Definitely. Turkey cutlets, shrimp, or tofu work well with the same garlic-herb and tomato profile.

What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?

Grape tomatoes, chopped regular tomatoes, or even drained canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch.

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Conclusion

Garlic Herb Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Broccoli is a quick, wholesome, and deeply flavorful dish that effortlessly fits into any weeknight routine or meal prep plan. It’s flexible enough for substitutions, yet reliable enough to become a staple. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe strikes that perfect balance of comfort and freshness—without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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