There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that marries rich, comforting flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients, and that is exactly what you get with Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli. This creamy chicken and broccoli skillet combines tender bites of juicy chicken breast with vibrant green broccoli florets, all bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese and cream. It’s a quick, one-pan wonder that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to treat yourself to a simple yet indulgent home-cooked meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli is straightforward, making this dish both accessible and incredibly tasty. Each ingredient plays its part, helping create layers of flavor, texture, and color that turn a humble skillet meal into a crowd-pleaser.
- Chicken breasts, 2 (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides lean protein and the hearty base for the dish.
- Broccoli florets, 2 cups: Adds fresh green color and a satisfying crunch to balance the creamy sauce.
- Butter, 2 tablespoons: Gives rich flavor and a silky texture to the sauce when melted.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Helps sear the chicken beautifully, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Garlic, 3 cloves (minced): The aromatic star that infuses the entire skillet with irresistible savory depth.
- Chicken broth, 1/2 cup: Adds savory moisture and helps deglaze the pan for sauce base.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Creates the luxuriously creamy consistency that coats every bite.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup: Introduces a salty, nutty richness that elevates the overall taste.
- Salt, pepper, and paprika (to taste): Seasonings that enhance and brighten the flavors of the dish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and great texture throughout. Season them generously with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. This trio of seasonings brings a subtle warmth and depth to the chicken, making every bite flavorful.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, allowing them to sear until golden brown and cooked through—about 4 to 5 minutes. This creates that irresistible crust and locks in juices. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside; you’ll bring it back later.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, using those wonderful browned bits left behind, add the minced garlic. Cook it briefly for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic should add sweetness and warmth rather than bitterness to your dish.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Then stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken gently. This step transforms your skillet into a luscious creamy base that ties all the components together.
Step 5: Simmer Chicken in Sauce
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, letting them simmer in the sauce for around 5 minutes. This soaking time allows the chicken to absorb the creamy, garlicky goodness while ensuring it stays tender and juicy.
Step 6: Add and Coat Broccoli
Lastly, toss in the steamed broccoli florets and gently stir everything together until the broccoli is well coated in the silky sauce. The broccoli adds a perfect fresh bite and vibrant color that brightens the ensemble.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli is ready to serve hot. Whether you pair it with rice, pasta, or warm crusty bread, this dish promises a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli
Garnishes
For an added touch of freshness and texture, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice also works beautifully to balance the richness and brighten the flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a simple buttered pasta to soak up all that luscious sauce. A crisp green salad can provide a refreshing contrast that balances the creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli in shallow bowls makes it easy to scoop up every saucy bite, perfect for cozy family dinners. You can also plate it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or stuff it into warm pita pockets with a sprinkle of fresh greens for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or convenient dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep nicely for up to 2 months. Just note that the texture of the broccoli might soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating helps maintain that silky consistency. You can also microwave it covered on medium power, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and bring extra juiciness to the dish, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just be sure to cut them into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Is it necessary to steam the broccoli before adding it to the skillet?
Steaming the broccoli beforehand ensures it stays bright green and tender without becoming mushy. If you prefer your broccoli more al dente, you can add it raw and cook it a few minutes longer in the skillet, but keep an eye on the texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and choose a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast. The flavor profile will differ but still be delicious.
What can I add to spice up the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli?
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can add just the right kick. You can also mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra burst of flavor complexity.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check that the chicken pieces are opaque through the center and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. The chicken should be firm but still juicy to the bite.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a comforting, creamy dish that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli is an absolute must-try. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with garlic and cheesy goodness that will keep you coming back for more. Gather your skillet, your favorite ingredients, and dive into this warm, delightful meal — I promise it will be a new favorite in your dinner rotation!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli
A creamy, one-pan chicken and broccoli skillet made with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a quick and comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Broccoli
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Cooking Fats and Flavorings
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze and Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Then add the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Simmer Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer in the creamy sauce for 5 minutes to meld the flavors and heat the chicken through.
- Add Broccoli: Gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets, tossing to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli hot, ideally paired with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes if you want to introduce a hint of heat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.