Easy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe: Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

Imagine a dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and brimming with the freshness of broccoli and tender chicken. This chicken and broccoli recipe is one of those classics that combines wholesome ingredients with comfort, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and weekend family meals alike. Chicken and broccoli are a perfect duo: lean protein meets nutrient-rich vegetables, brought together in a variety of styles—be it an Alfredo sauce, a hearty casserole, or a healthy skillet stir-fry. This recipe will show you how to create a versatile, delicious dish with just a few simple steps and ingredients.

Looking to whip up a meal that’s both delicious and simple? Let’s dive in.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Description: A creamy, satisfying dish with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce that’s perfect for cozy family dinners.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients List

• Chicken Breast: 1 lb, diced
• Broccoli Florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 small, chopped
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Paprika: ½ tsp (optional, for extra flavor)
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it takes on a rich, golden-brown hue. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, drizzle in another tablespoon of olive oil and start cooking the vegetables.
3. Sauté the garlic and onions for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and turn translucent.
4. Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for another 3 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: Turn the heat down to low to prepare the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring until everything is coated in the sauce. Continue cooking for 3 more minutes, giving the flavors time to blend harmoniously.
7. Serve: Garnish with red pepper flakes if desired and serve hot.

Notes

• For a lower-fat option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
• Feel free to use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available—just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite for both adults and kids.
3. Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with protein and vegetables, this meal is a great choice for a balanced diet.
4. Versatile: Easily adapted into a casserole or stir-fry for different flavors and textures.
5. Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, chicken breast works perfectly here. Substitute with boneless thighs for extra juiciness or use tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a crisp texture and earthy flavor. Frozen broccoli works as well; just be sure to thaw it beforehand.
• Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a savory, nutty taste that enhances the richness of the sauce. If you prefer a different taste, try using mozzarella or even a vegan cheese alternative.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that add depth to the sauce. Shallots can be used in place of onions for a sweeter flavor.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Warm some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken to begin cooking. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside to use later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Onions

Add a bit more oil to the skillet if needed, then add the minced garlic and chopped onions. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, around 2-3 minutes, which builds a solid flavor base for the dish.

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Chicken Broth

Now, add the broccoli florets, letting them cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to simmer and steam the broccoli. This step infuses more flavor into the broccoli and keeps it tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Once it’s warmed through, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce with the broccoli. Cook everything together for another few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to serving bowls, garnish with red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, and enjoy your creamy, comforting chicken and broccoli meal.

Expert Tips for Success

• Pre-Cook the Chicken: To prevent overcooking the chicken, sear it first before adding it to the sauce, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli: For best texture, keep the broccoli slightly crisp, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a more authentic, creamy texture.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the sauce, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

• Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo: For an Alfredo-style dish, double the cream and add a touch of butter. Serve over pasta for a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Healthy Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and cut down on the cheese for a lighter meal that’s still creamy and satisfying.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms along with the garlic and onions for an earthy twist that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or increase the red pepper flakes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Leftover Storage: Place any remaining food in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Heat slowly in a skillet over low heat. In case the sauce is very thick , add a bit of milk or cream to ensure a perfect consistency.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and broccoli dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of rice or pasta. Garlic bread is a wonderful addition for mopping up the sauce, and a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this chicken and broccoli recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

2. Can I substitute fresh broccoli with frozen?

Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper will bring extra heat to the dish.

Related Recipes

• Chicken Quesadilla Recipe: Cheesy, crispy, and loaded with flavorful chicken – the perfect quesadilla awaits!
• Chicken Alfredo Recipe: Creamy, comforting, and easy to make – this Chicken Alfredo is pure indulgence!
• Chicken Cutlet Recipe: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – these chicken cutlets are a must-try!

And there you have it!

This creamy chicken and broccoli recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, easy enough for a quick dinner but satisfying enough to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to make a creamy casserole, a hearty Alfredo, or a healthy skillet meal, this recipe is versatile and incredibly tasty. Try it for yourself, and bring some warmth and deliciousness to your dinner table tonight!