Remember those weeknights when Mom would toss everything in one pan and somehow magic happened? This creamy garlic chicken and broccoli skillet has that same vibe it’s blowing up for a reason. TikTok’s calling it “the coziest five-step wonder.” I just call it dinner.
This easy recipe brings together juicy chicken, warm garlic cream, and broccoli that actually tastes like something other than guilt. It’s pantry-lazy think garlic, broth, maybe some leftover rice action. Like a chicken alfredo and a sheet pan supper had a very efficient baby. Full details in the blog!
This kind of meal is my love language. It tastes like Sunday but takes less time than convincing the toddler to eat vegetables. Learned this trick from my mom’s minute chicken dinners. I tested it five ways. You’ll love the splash of lemon at the end!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup is a lifesaver, especially on busy weeknights.
Quick and cozy: From stovetop to table in just 30 minutes, it’s comfort food without the wait.
Family-approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love the creamy garlic sauce, and it’s a sneaky way to work in broccoli.
Customizable: Perfect for using leftover chicken or mixing up the veggies with what’s on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredient
Amount
Notes
Chicken breasts
2 pounds
Trimmed and ready to go.
Kosher salt & black pepper
To taste
Essential for seasoning!
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon
Adds a touch of warm spice.
Butter
4 tablespoons
Divided for browning chicken and making the sauce.
Garlic, minced
4 to 5 cloves
Add as much or as little as your garlic-loving heart desires.
Cream of chicken soup
10.5 ounces (1 can)
The base of that creamy comfort.
Water
1 cup
Thins the sauce to coat everything perfectly.
Broccoli, chopped
2–3 cups
Use fresh or frozen, your choice!
Fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon
Optional garnish for added freshness.
Lemon wedges
Optional
For a bright finishing touch.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Season & Sear: Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the chicken for about 5 minutes per side. Set aside on a plate and cover to keep warm.
Make the Sauce: Whisk the cream of chicken soup and water into the skillet, stirring until smooth, hot, and bubbling. Reduce heat to low so it simmers gently.
Bring It Together: Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Nestle in the broccoli and cover with a lid. Let everything simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender. For crunchier broccoli, add it closer to the end of cooking.
Finish & Serve: Sprinkle parsley over the top and serve warm. Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Pair with rice, pasta, or just good bread to soak up that creamy garlic sauce!
Step Summary: What to Watch For
Step
What to Focus On
Searing Chicken
Don’t crowd the pan! Let the chicken develop a golden crust.
Making the Sauce
Whisk until smooth and bubble-free.
Adding Broccoli
For firmer broccoli, add it closer to the end.
Simmering
Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer, not a boil.
Tips, Tweaks & Storage
Make it yours: Swap broccoli for cauliflower, or mix the two if you’re feeling adventurous.
Shortcut hack: If you’ve got pre-cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken, just skip the searing step and toss it in during the simmer with broccoli. Perfect for healthy dinner recipes for family gluten free.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Storage Tips at a Glance
Storage Method
How Long It Lasts
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days
Reheat covered on the stove with a splash of water.
Freezer
Not recommended
The sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture.
Expert Insight: Balancing Flavor and Nutrition in Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
For a dish like Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet, it’s key to cook the garlic gently to preserve its delicate aroma without bitterness. Combining lean protein with nutrient-dense broccoli not only enhances flavor but also creates a satisfying meal rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
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The Journey to the Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
This creamy garlic chicken and broccoli skillet was a slow dance of trial and error in my kitchen. After burning the sauce once and undercooking the broccoli another time, I finally nailed the balance of creamy garlic and tender veggies. Today’s recipe is the delicious result of all those kitchen missteps and lessons learned.
FAQs ( Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet )
How long does it take to make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet?
This delicious skillet dinner takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need easy dinner ideas with broccoli that don’t compromise on flavor. Most of the cooking happens in one pan, making cleanup a breeze too!
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully as one of those meals to make with leftover chicken. Simply skip the initial chicken cooking step and add your pre-cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes to heat through. It’s a great way to transform yesterday’s chicken into tonight’s comfort food masterpiece.
Is this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet healthy for families?
Yes, this makes an excellent healthy dinner for big family gatherings! It’s packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh broccoli. You can make it even healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream or adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
What can I serve with this skillet dish?
This versatile skillet pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up that creamy garlic sauce. For a lower-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or with a simple side salad. It’s one of those easy hearty meals that stands well on its own or with your favorite sides.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make this one of your go-to healthy dinner recipes for family gluten free, simply substitute the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for thickening. Make sure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious meal everyone can enjoy safely.
Let’s Wrap It Up
That creamy garlic chicken and broccoli skillet is your new go-to for easy hearty meals that taste like a warm kitchen hug. Ready in about 30 minutes, it hits creamy, garlicky, and cozy just right you’ll wanna make it again (and again!).
Feel free to switch up the broccoli for whatever veggies you have, or stir in leftover chicken to save time and waste less. A little lemon squeeze at the end? Game-changer. Trust me, a tip I picked up that brings fresh life to this classic.
Did this skillet remind you of a beloved family recipe or kitchen moment? Snap a pic, share your twist, or tag a friend who needs a healthy dinner for big family winner. From my kitchen to yours, here’s to cozy, simple, real meals that bring everyone back to the table.
A flavorful one-pan meal with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners and comforting enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
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.
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.
Notes
For firmer broccoli, add it later in the cooking process to keep it crisp
Serve over rice or pasta and add lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
