Bright, creamy, and utterly comforting, the One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple. Imagine tender chunks of golden chicken mingling with vibrant, tender broccoli all bathed in a luscious cheese sauce that feels indulgent without the fuss. This dish brings together straightforward ingredients that transform into a harmonious, crowd-pleasing meal, all done in one pan for quick cleanup. It’s everything you want when you’re hungry and pressed for time but still want to savor a homemade dinner that hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making this dish shine. Each item plays a role in layering flavors, textures, and colors, resulting in a balanced and satisfying dinner that your family will beg you to make again and again.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Provides tender, juicy protein that’s perfect for quick cooking and soaking up flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps golden the chicken beautifully in the skillet.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle, savory depth that enhances the chicken without overpowering.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle aromatic sweetness, complementing the garlic and spices.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings a mild smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Offers a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Acts as a flavorful liquid base to steam the broccoli and keep everything juicy.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Creates that rich, silky sauce that ties the whole dish together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Adds melty, tangy goodness that makes this dinner irresistibly creamy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons): Boosts savory umami flavor with a touch of sharpness.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): Offers a subtle zing that livens up the sauce beautifully.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon each, optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce if you prefer it more luscious.
- Cooked rice or pasta (optional): Great for serving as a base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring occasionally. Your goal is a beautifully golden and cooked-through crust, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and creates a delightful texture that makes the dish so satisfying.
Step 2: Add Broccoli and Steam
Once your chicken is nicely browned, it is time to add those fresh broccoli florets. Stir them into the skillet so every bite has a hint of green crunch! Then pour in the chicken broth, covering the skillet to let the broccoli steam. This gentle cooking method softens the broccoli just right without turning it mushy. Give it around 3 to 4 minutes of steaming — you want the broccoli tender but still bright and crisp.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower your heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. This is where the magic happens as these ingredients melt together into a dreamy, velvety sauce that lovingly hugs every piece of chicken and broccoli. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly; this usually takes just a few minutes.
Step 4: Thicken if Desired and Adjust Seasoning
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry made by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes while the sauce thickens to your liking. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed, so every bite bursts with balanced flavor.
How to Serve One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little fresh flourish on top can elevate your dish from comforting to truly special. Consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green and herbal brightness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can add an irresistible salty crunch that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe shines beautifully on its own but pairing it with fluffy cooked rice or pasta takes it to the next level. The starch acts like a cozy nest that soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce. For a lighter or low-carb twist, cauliflower rice is a wonderful alternative that keeps things vibrant and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get a little creative! Serve this dish in adorable mini skillets or cast iron pans for a rustic, homey feel that will impress your guests. Or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of extra cream, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast that awakens the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe keep beautifully in the fridge. Transfer your cooled meal to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. Since the sauce is creamy, give it a gentle stir before reheating to bring back its luscious texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, store portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle defrosting.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Stir frequently to evenly warm the chicken and broccoli without overcooking, and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick or dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and can help save prep time. Just make sure to adjust the steaming time slightly since frozen broccoli defrosts quickly.
Is it okay to substitute other cheeses for cheddar?
Definitely! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack make lovely mild substitutes. Just keep in mind cheddar gives a sharp, tangy flavor that really characterizes this recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try swapping the heavy cream and cheeses for dairy-free alternatives, but expect the sauce to be less rich and creamy. Nutritional yeast and coconut cream are good options to experiment with.
What can I serve instead of rice or pasta?
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative and complements the flavors beautifully. Roasted potatoes or even crusty bread can also work as excellent sides.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The whole process takes about 30 minutes – just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes cooking, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe enough for those times when you want something fast, fabulous, and full of flavor without a mountain of dishes. It’s a surefire way to bring a comforting, homemade vibe to the table with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight — I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to dinners that never disappoints!
Print
One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner is a quick and hearty meal featuring tender chicken bites cooked with fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines wholesome ingredients with minimal cleanup, delivering a flavorful, comforting dinner that can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice or pasta.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Sauce
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Serving Suggestion
- Cooked rice or pasta for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and season chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly.
- Cook chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add broccoli and steam: Stir in the broccoli florets. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the skillet, and let it steam for 3–4 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp.
- Create the creamy sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and Dijon mustard if using. Let the sauce simmer gently until it slightly thickens.
- Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the skillet. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens further.
- Adjust seasonings and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli warm on its own or over cooked rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder cheese flavor.
- Using pre-steamed broccoli can reduce the cooking time.
- For a lower-carb alternative, serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or pasta.
