This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal packed with rich flavor and wholesome ingredients. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a silky garlic cream sauce come together for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The creamy garlic sauce coats every bite perfectly, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 (4-ounce) chicken cutlets
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3 large cloves garlic, grated
- ½ cup chicken broth (halal replacement for wine)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for acidity balance)
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli and remaining olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for about 1 minute until bright green and lightly seared.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and apple cider vinegar; cook briefly until slightly reduced.
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in the cream, remaining salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken or spoon the broccoli and sauce over it. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly grated garlic for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook broccoli; keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add mushrooms or carrots for extra vegetables.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Halal-friendly, Gluten-Free
Notes
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- You can swap broccoli with green beans or zucchini.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 28g
FAQ
1. Can I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently before serving.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little butter.
3. Is this recipe low carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and suitable for keto-style diets.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture.
5. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (cream texture may slightly change).
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Similar Recipes
Creamy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 4-ounce chicken cutlets
- ¾ teaspoon salt divided
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper divided
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 3 large cloves garlic grated
- ½ cup chicken broth halal replacement for wine
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar optional, for acidity balance
- 4 cups chopped broccoli florets
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley optional
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until golden and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli and remaining olive oil. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for about 1 minute until bright green and lightly seared.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and apple cider vinegar; cook briefly until slightly reduced.
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in the cream, remaining salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken or spoon the broccoli and sauce over it. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- You can swap broccoli with green beans or zucchini.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is a reliable, delicious meal that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for any night of the week.