Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Introduction
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, nutrient-packed broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick to make, yet satisfying enough for a cozy meal. The dish is known for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and the ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family, a special occasion, or a casual dinner, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. The addition of chicken provides a source of lean protein, while the broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this skillet recipe is ideal for those who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The History of
While there’s no single definitive origin for creamy chicken and broccoli dishes, it draws inspiration from classic comfort food recipes that pair chicken with vegetables in rich, creamy sauces. Dishes like chicken alfredo and creamy chicken casserole have long been staples in many households, and the concept of combining poultry with greens like broccoli has been a popular choice for decades. The creamy chicken and broccoli skillet recipe likely emerged as a convenient way to prepare this combination in one pan, making it an efficient yet indulgent meal for busy home cooks. The simplicity of the recipe and the widespread popularity of both chicken and broccoli make it a beloved dish in homes and restaurants alike.

Ingredients Breakdown
The core ingredients for this recipe are chicken breasts or thighs, fresh broccoli florets, cream, garlic, chicken broth, and seasonings. Chicken provides lean protein and flavor, while broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins C and K, and minerals like potassium and folate. The creamy sauce is typically made from heavy cream, though some variations use alternatives like sour cream, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter take. Garlic is used for its aromatic flavor, while chicken broth helps to create a savory base for the sauce. A blend of seasonings like salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika adds depth to the dish. Optional garnishes, such as fresh herbs or grated parmesan, can be added for an extra layer of flavor. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious and delicious dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Begin by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly tender but still vibrant green.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. This will help to deglaze the pan and infuse the broccoli with flavor.
4. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Adjust the seasonings to your preference.
6. Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Stir the chicken into the creamy sauce and broccoli, making sure it’s well coated.
7. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. If desired, sprinkle grated parmesan or fresh herbs over the top for added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
To ensure the dish turns out perfectly, consider these tips: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for easy, even cooking. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative. For extra creaminess, you can stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream at the end. If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. To avoid overcooking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli – it should remain crisp-tender and vibrant green for the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Customizations
While the classic version of creamy chicken and broccoli is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes. For a cheesy twist, add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the creamy sauce and let it melt in. You could also incorporate other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or bell peppers for added variety and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. For a more filling meal, serve the dish over a bed of rice, pasta, or quinoa. You can also swap the chicken for another protein, such as turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based option like tofu or tempeh.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet offers a balanced meal with a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. Broccoli provides fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals that contribute to a healthy immune system and digestive health. The creamy sauce, while delicious, is rich in fats, so be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream and use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives. Adding extra vegetables can also increase the fiber content and make the dish even more nutrient-dense. On average, a serving of this dish contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat them when ready to serve. For best results, store the broccoli separately and add it just before serving to prevent overcooking.
3. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? Absolutely! You can use turkey, shrimp, or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh as a substitute for the chicken.
4. How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a healthy, customizable recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 4-5 cloves garlic minced
• 1 1/2 cups almond milk or any milk of choice
• 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or any flour
• 1 medium head of broccoli chopped (about 3 cups)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Instructions

 

• Rub the 2 pounds of boneless chicken breasts with kosher salt, ground pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning on all sides.
• In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of almond milk and 1 tablespoon of gluten-free flour until smooth. Set it aside.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden-brown and cooked through. Set the chicken aside and cover it to keep warm.
• In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for up to 1 minute.
• Pour in the almond milk mixture and stir. The sauce will begin to thicken as it heats up.
• Add the chopped florets from 1 medium head of broccoli and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until tender.
• Return the chicken to the pan and cook for another couple of minutes to warm through.
• Garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Notes

Note: The recipe shows 4 chicken breasts in the picture, but you should have 6-8 pieces. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them into two thinner pieces to ensure even cooking.
Some people feel this dish isn’t creamy enough due to the almond milk. If that’s the case, feel free to use whole milk or canned lite coconut milk for a richer consistency.
Seasonings: I used Italian seasoning, but feel free to use any seasoning blend you prefer or create your own Italian seasoning mix. For extra flavor, you can add paprika and onion powder.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but if you don’t have any on hand, garlic powder is a fine substitute.
Oil: You can use any type of oil you prefer, such as olive oil, avocado oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil.
Milk: I used almond milk, but any other milk of your choice will work.
Veggies: Broccoli is used in this recipe, but you can substitute any of your favorite vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, green beans, or zucchini.
Chicken: If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, feel free to use them. The nutrition facts and calories may vary slightly.
Flour: Any type of flour you have on hand should work for this recipe.