Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to my favorite weeknight go-to: Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet. This recipe combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a luxurious garlic-Parmesan sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe extra special is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just whipping up something quick for yourself, this skillet meal fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it comes together in just one pan—less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess is always a win! Everything cooks together in one skillet.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Deliciously Comforting: The rich flavors of garlic and cream make this dish feel indulgent without being complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that delightful flavor and texture we all love!

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) paprika

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons (60 g) butter, divided for cooking
• 4 to 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 10.5 ounces (298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can), or more if needed
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

For the Vegetables

• 2 to 3 cups (480–710 ml) broccoli, chopped
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Variations

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!
• Change the base: Serve it over quinoa or couscous instead of rice or pasta for a twist.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks—trust me, every bite will be bursting with goodness!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until both sides are beautifully browned. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm while we work on that luscious sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. When melted, toss in those minced garlic cloves! Sauté them until they’re fragrant and just starting to turn golden brown—a wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Whisk in the condensed cream of chicken soup along with water until hot and bubbly. Lowering the heat here is key; we want everything to meld together beautifully without boiling over.

Step 5: Simmer with Broccoli

Return that lovely chicken to the pan along with chopped broccoli. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. If you prefer firmer broccoli, wait until closer to finishing before adding it.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet warm over rice or pasta. Don’t forget those lemon wedges! A little squeeze adds brightness that complements all those rich flavors perfectly. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.

And there you have it—a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Cooking can be a joyful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a vibrant flavor that dried garlic simply can’t match. It enhances the overall taste of the sauce, making it aromatic and delicious.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, give each piece enough space in the skillet. This ensures even browning and prevents steaming, leading to tender and juicy chicken.
• Adjust the broccoli timing: For perfectly cooked broccoli, add it to the skillet towards the end of cooking. This keeps it bright green and crisp while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to customize the flavor profile. Thyme, oregano, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick!
• Make it creamy without heavy cream: If you want an even creamier sauce without using heavy cream, consider adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for added richness.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Presenting your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet beautifully will make your meal even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to make this flavorful dish shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side not only enhances the presentation but also allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions for extra zing.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the creamy sauce and add a savory finish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: Perfectly fluffy steamed rice serves as a comforting base that absorbs all those delicious flavors from the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is wonderful for soaking up the sauce while providing a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy skillet meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast while still being hearty enough to complement your main dish.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring natural sweetness and warmth, balancing out the richness of the creamy chicken skillet beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet will not only taste amazing but look inviting too! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Seal well to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For even heating, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet:

Can I use other vegetables in this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet healthier?

To lighten it up, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup or substituting half of the butter with olive oil. You can also add more vegetables!

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since it may cook faster than fresh broccoli.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!