Last week, I was in a total dinner rut. Staring blankly into the fridge, I knew I had some chicken thighs and a head of broccoli that needed to be used, plus those adorable cherry tomatoes my daughter loves so much. I wanted something simple, flavorful, and something the whole family would actually eat. That’s when the idea for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli was born, and it has quickly become a weeknight staple.

I remember when I first started cooking, I was so intimidated by recipes with lots of ingredients. I thought they’d be super complicated. But this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special. The juicy chicken, bursting cherry tomatoes, and perfectly tender-crisp broccoli, all bathed in a savory garlic herb sauce…it’s a symphony of flavors!

My husband is a huge fan of anything with garlic (the more the better, he always says!), and even my picky eight-year-old gobbled this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli right up. What I love most is that it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a quick and easy cleanup? This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli recipe has saved me on many busy weeknights.

One of the things I struggled with early on was getting the chicken cooked through without drying it out. I’ve learned that the key is to use chicken thighs (they stay so much juicier than breasts) and to not overcook them. A little trick I picked up from my grandma is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking – it makes all the difference!

This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is perfect for when unexpected guests drop by. It feels fancy enough to impress, but it’s secretly so easy to throw together. I even served it at a small get-together recently, and everyone raved about it! Trust me, this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is going to become a family favorite, because it’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. It is also an excellent recipe if you are looking to reduce the amount of dishes that you have to clean!

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe. It’s become such a staple in our house, and I know it will become one in yours too. Get ready for a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors with this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed dish:

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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of your favorite fresh herbs, like rosemary, thyme, and oregano)

1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

1 head broccoli, cut into florets
2 tbsp butter
1/4 cup chicken broth

1 tbsp lemon juice
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little kick

Ingredient Breakdown: Tips and Tricks

Okay, let’s break down these ingredients and chat about some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. First off, the chicken. I always go for chicken thighs because they are much more forgiving than chicken breasts. They stay nice and juicy, even if you accidentally overcook them a little bit. For this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli recipe, they’re truly the best choice! Thighs also tend to be more flavorful than breasts, which is a bonus.

Next up: garlic. Oh, garlic, how I love thee! But here’s a tip I learned the hard way: *don’t burn it!* Burnt garlic is bitter and can ruin the whole dish. Keep a close eye on it when you’re sautéing it. If you’re using fresh herbs for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli, that’s great! I find fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma and flavor. But if you only have dried herbs on hand, that’s perfectly fine too. Just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Now, let’s talk veggies. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness that balances out the savory garlic and herbs in this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli. I usually buy them from my local farmer’s market when they’re in season because they just taste so much better. And broccoli – my kids actually eat it when it’s cooked this way! I think the butter and the garlic help, haha! I always make sure my broccoli is fresh, referencing Broccoli, raw.

Speaking of butter, don’t skimp on it! It adds richness and flavor to the sauce. I usually use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt in the dish. And the chicken broth helps create a lovely, light sauce that coats everything beautifully. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli needs this sauce!

If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use low-sodium chicken broth. My mother-in-law is on a low-sodium diet, so I always have some on hand. Oh, and a little squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up. It’s like a little ray of sunshine in your dish! And if you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice little kick to this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli.

Finally, a little tip for storing any leftover herbs: I wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the fridge. This helps them stay fresh for longer. Using quality fresh chicken for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli recipe is important, referring to Chicken, broiler, thigh, meat only, raw. Also, the best cherry tomatoes can be found at Cherry Tomatoes, raw.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This is where the magic starts happening, so don’t be shy with those herbs! The aroma alone is going to get your taste buds excited for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli.
Sauté the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of brown. If you need to, cook it in batches. I learned that lesson the hard way! You want a nice sear on that chicken for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli. Searing is important for flavor development, because it creates what’s called the Maillard reaction. This is a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavor.
Add the tomatoes and broccoli: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to soften and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The cherry tomatoes should start to burst and release their juices, creating a lovely sauce. This step really brings the garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli together.

Make the sauce: Add the butter and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Those browned bits are where so much flavor is hiding, so don’t skip this step! This sauce is what makes this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli so irresistible. The process of scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan is called deglazing. It’s a simple technique that adds a ton of flavor to your sauce. The browned bits are full of concentrated flavor, and deglazing helps to release them and incorporate them into the sauce.
Finish with lemon juice: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. I usually add a little extra salt and pepper to taste. And if you like a little heat, now’s the time to add those red pepper flakes. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is almost ready.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy! You can garnish with some fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for an extra touch of freshness. I love to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top too. It adds a nice salty, savory note. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is best served hot and fresh.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking. If you like more garlic, add more garlic! If you prefer a different herb, go for it! This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is your canvas. And don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect the first time. The most important thing is that it tastes good!

One thing I always tell my friends is to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. It makes the whole process so much smoother and less stressful. And don’t be afraid to ask for help! Cooking with friends and family can be a lot of fun. I love cooking with my daughter – she’s my little sous chef! This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is a great recipe to make with kids because they can help wash and chop the vegetables.

Serving Ideas

We usually serve this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli family-style, right in the skillet. It just looks so inviting and everyone can help themselves. I love to serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’re going to want to soak up every last drop! This sauce from the garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is truly special!

Sometimes, I’ll serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. My husband loves it with rice, and my daughter prefers quinoa. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice or quinoa too. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is so versatile that it goes well with just about anything.

For a fancier presentation, you can plate individual portions and garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It looks so elegant and impressive, even though it’s such an easy dish to make. The bright colors of the cherry tomatoes and broccoli make it look so appealing. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. The presentation of a dish can greatly enhance the dining experience.

This has become our go-to for Sunday dinners with the grandparents. They absolutely love it! My grandma always asks for the recipe, and I’m happy to share it with her. It’s a dish that brings people together. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli reminds me of home.

If we somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), they make the best lunch the next day. I usually pack them in a container with some rice or quinoa, and it’s a delicious and healthy meal. The flavors meld together even more overnight, making it even more flavorful. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is just as good the next day.

Honestly, though, there are never many leftovers. My family just devours this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli. They love it so much that they usually ask for seconds. And sometimes, even thirds! It’s a testament to how delicious and satisfying this dish is.

I also sometimes add a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving. The saltiness of the feta complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the savory garlic and herbs perfectly. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli with feta is a new favorite.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily than chicken thighs. If you use chicken breasts, be sure not to overcook them. I would also suggest cutting them into smaller pieces so they cook more evenly. But really, this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli tastes better with thighs!

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but I prefer fresh broccoli because it has a better texture. If you use frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the skillet. Also, frozen broccoli tends to be a bit more watery, so you may need to cook it for a longer period of time to evaporate some of the excess moisture. Honestly, fresh broccoli makes a difference for this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and vegetables and make the sauce separately, then combine them all together when you’re ready to serve. Or, you can cook the entire dish and reheat it later. The flavors will actually meld together even more overnight. I usually do this if I know I’m going to have a busy weeknight. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is great for meal prepping. Many find that the flavors are enhanced after the meal has been refrigerated.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I love adding zucchini in the summer when it’s in season. It adds a nice sweetness to this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. I like to add a little bit of water or chicken broth when I reheat it to prevent it from drying out. I love eating leftover garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli!

What can I serve with this?

This dish goes well with so many things! You can serve it with rice, quinoa, pasta, a side salad, or some crusty bread. It’s also delicious served over mashed potatoes or polenta. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is incredibly versatile.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

No problem! Dried herbs work just fine. Use about half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs, since dried herbs are more concentrated. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli will still taste amazing!

Conclusion

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This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli has become a true staple in our house. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and it’s so easy to make. It’s the kind of dish that I can throw together on a busy weeknight and still feel good about serving my family a healthy and delicious meal.

Here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way:

Don’t overcook the chicken: It’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked than overcooked, as the chicken will continue to cook as it rests.

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: It really does make a difference!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and vegetables: This recipe is very forgiving.

My family loves this dish in so many different ways. My son loves it with extra cheese, my daughter prefers it plain, and my husband always asks for a double portion of the sauce. It’s a dish that everyone can customize to their liking. This garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli is a true crowd-pleaser.

Don’t be intimidated – if I can make this on a busy Tuesday night, you absolutely can too! It’s a great recipe for beginner cooks, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. I promise, you’ll be making this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli again and again.

I’d love to hear how this turns out for your family – drop me a comment below and let me know what you think! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration! Before you try this recipe, be sure to check out my other family friendly options, such as my Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce, and my Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Parmesan Pasta.

Happy cooking, and I hope this becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine! With the fresh garlic and herbs, the burst of cherry tomatoes, and tender broccoli, this garlic herb chicken with cherry tomatoes and broccoli will be a recipe you make often!