This delicious and hearty dish, the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet, is a one-pan wonder that brings together the rich, savory flavors of pan-seared chicken, the vibrant green freshness of broccoli, and a lusciously creamy garlic-infused sauce. It’s a comfort food classic with a modern twist, ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to serve guests. With the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and flavor-packed sauce, this dish is beloved by families, home cooks, and food enthusiasts alike.
The History of Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
The roots of creamy chicken dishes trace back to European cuisine, particularly French and Italian traditions that utilize cream, garlic, and pan-cooked meats as staples. French cuisine often features cream-based sauces, such as velouté and béchamel, which inspired many modern interpretations of creamy entrées. Italian cuisine brought us the love of garlic and herbs in sauces, adding depth and rustic charm. The combination of garlic, cream, and sautéed proteins evolved over the years, eventually crossing over into American kitchens where quick skillet meals became popular for their convenience and flavor. Broccoli, originally cultivated in Italy, gained popularity in the U.S. in the 20th century and became a favorite vegetable for pairing with cheese and creamy sauces. The combination of garlic, chicken, and broccoli is now a mainstay in home cooking due to its balance of richness and health benefits, not to mention how easily it adapts to different dietary preferences.
Ingredients Breakdown
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color and mild heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for lighter version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Each ingredient has a purpose: chicken is the protein base, broccoli adds crunch and nutrition, garlic infuses rich flavor, cream and cheese bring indulgence, and the spices and seasoning tie it all together in harmony.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, or use whole thighs if you prefer juicier cuts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent—about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze and Simmer Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift all the delicious brown bits. Stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Steam the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets directly to the skillet and cover with a lid. Let them steam for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, cook a bit longer.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If the sauce needs thickening, add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously for another minute or two until thickened.
- Return Chicken to Pan: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce and broccoli. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, optionally over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
- Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother sauce and better flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken—this ensures even browning and a better texture.
- For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it first to prevent excess water from thinning the sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance. A dash of lemon juice can brighten the richness of the cream.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable. For a low-carb or keto version, use heavy cream and skip thickening agents like cornstarch. Add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables. Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese in place of cream for a tangier profile. Try swapping the chicken with shrimp or tofu for different dietary needs. You can even make it dairy-free by using coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and cheese. Spice lovers can increase the garlic and add cayenne or chipotle for heat. Add pasta or rice directly into the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli can be part of a balanced diet with a few mindful adjustments. A serving provides a good amount of protein from chicken, fiber and vitamins from broccoli, and calcium from the cheese. To lighten the dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk and reduce the cheese. For those on low-fat diets, use grilled or baked chicken breast and reduce the oil. It’s naturally gluten-free, and you can make it low-carb or keto-friendly by avoiding thickening agents or starches. The use of fresh ingredients makes this dish a more wholesome alternative to processed meals, and it’s free of additives if made from scratch. Portion control is key, as cream-based dishes can be calorie-dense.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes! Simply shred and stir in at the end, skipping the searing step.
Can I make this ahead? Absolutely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid splitting the sauce.
Can I freeze it? While you can freeze it, cream sauces sometimes separate upon reheating. Stir well and reheat slowly to restore texture.
What can I serve this with? It pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I make it vegan? Yes, use tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives, coconut milk for cream, and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor.
How do I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a bit of hot sauce.
Can I make it dairy-free? Substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese or leave it out.
Can I use other vegetables? Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 2 to 3 cups 480–710 ml broccoli, chopped
- 1 teaspoon 5 ml fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika, then set it aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until both sides are nicely browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover, and keep warm.
- Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden brown. Whisk in the condensed cream of chicken soup along with the water, stirring until the mixture is hot, smooth, and bubbling. Reduce the heat to low.
- Return the chicken to the pan, along with the chopped broccoli. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. For firmer, more al dente broccoli, wait to add it until the chicken is nearly done so it stays crisp.
- Serve warm over rice or pasta, with lemon wedges on the side if desired. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for garnish.