Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the one-pan wonder that is Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet! In every bite, you’ll savor tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a dreamy, silky Parmesan-laced sauce kissed with garlic. This dish feels fancy enough for a special night but is simple enough to whip up on a Monday. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is pure comfort—soothing, satisfying, and sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something truly spectacular. Each one plays a unique role, contributing depth, richness, or a pop of color to this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you don’t want to skip any of them!

• Chicken breasts or thighs: This is your protein powerhouse, delivering juiciness and a perfect canvas for the creamy sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, bringing out the best in both the chicken and the sauce.
• Paprika (optional): Adds lovely color and a gentle warmth; perfect for a touch of personality.
• Olive oil or butter: Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection and creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Don’t skimp here—the minced garlic infuses the whole skillet with its irresistible aroma and taste.
• Yellow onion (optional): Offers sweetness and a little extra body to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Balances richness with savory depth, keeping the sauce from feeling too heavy.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates that signature luscious, velvety texture in your skillet sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a hint of tang and plenty of umami.
• Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that ties everything together for a classic, comforting flavor.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Add crunch, color, and loads of nutrition to balance out the creaminess.
• Cornstarch slurry (optional): A quick way to thicken the sauce if you like it extra hearty.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Finish with a sprinkle for a fresh, vibrant pop.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who crave just a little heat in their creamy garlic chicken and broccoli skillet.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half horizontally—you’ll end up with thinner pieces that cook evenly and stay juicy. Prefer thighs? Go right ahead! Season both sides with plenty of salt, pepper, and a dusting of paprika. This simple step makes a world of difference, forming that crave-worthy base layer of flavor in your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Warm up olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, lay down those seasoned chicken pieces and sear them for four to six minutes per side, until beautifully golden and just cooked through. Set the chicken aside on a plate—don’t worry, it’s coming back for a grand finish!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In that same skillet (no need to wash, all those browned bits are flavor gold), add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, just a couple of minutes. Be vigilant—burnt garlic will overpower the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet magic!

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer Sauce

Now the fun begins! Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious bits from the bottom. Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half, if you’re going lighter), Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes a smooth, creamy dream.

Step 5: Steam the Broccoli

Add broccoli florets directly into the skillet, tucking them into the sauce. Pop on a lid so they steam for three to four minutes. You’re aiming for bright green, tender-crisp broccoli that’s neither mushy nor raw—just right for this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

Want your sauce extra thick and luxurious? Stir in a cornstarch slurry (just a bit of cornstarch mixed with water) and watch it transform! Keep stirring for another minute or two until you reach your perfect texture.

Step 7: Return Chicken to Pan

Nestle the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, letting them soak up the garlicky, cheesy sauce. Simmer gently for a couple more minutes, giving everything time to mingle and the flavors to really pop.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Turn off the heat and shower your skillet masterpiece with chopped parsley and, if you like a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this; try it on its own or over rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a cozy finish.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way! Top your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet with vibrant fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for spicy intrigue. Freshly cracked black pepper or extra Parmesan cheese will also deliver that final touch of restaurant-worthy appeal.

Side Dishes

This skillet marvel is fabulous on its own, but it truly shines when partnered with a simple side. Try it spooned over buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or your favorite pasta to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce. A tossed green salad or warm garlic bread on the side makes this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet a complete comfort meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! For a dinner party, serve your chicken sliced over the creamy sauce and broccoli for a stunning plate. You can even stuff the saucy chicken and broccoli into baked potatoes, pile it into a bread bowl, or use as a filling for savory crepes. However you serve it, this skillet never fails to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), allow the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to three days, and the flavors just keep getting better overnight.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Place portions in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within two months for best results. Keep in mind that creamy sauces may separate a bit on thawing, but a gentle reheat and vigorous stir will bring things back together.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, gently reheat your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems thick. The microwave works, too—just go low and slow, stirring often for the creamiest results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well—just add it directly to the skillet a minute or two earlier than you would fresh florets so it has time to warm through and cook evenly.

What’s the best way to make this dish lighter?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or even whole milk, and use a bit less cheese. The result will still be satisfying with fewer calories, making the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet a bit lighter but no less delicious.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make fantastic additions. Just toss them in after the onion and garlic for extra color, texture, and nutrition.

Is it possible to make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes, you can craft a dairy-free version of Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet by using your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk (like oat or cashew) and a vegan Parmesan-style cheese. The flavor will shift a bit, but the comforting creamy texture remains.

How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

The key is not to overcook! Slice your chicken into cutlets for quick, even cooking, and let it rest briefly after searing. Returning it to the warm, creamy sauce right before serving helps lock in moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet—elegant yet unfussy, always crowd-pleasing, and totally achievable on even the busiest nights. Give it a try, share it with friends or family, and get ready to savor every bite!

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