Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Make a cheesy chicken broccoli skillet in 30 minutes with simple ingredients and a creamy sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners—try it today!

Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe – 30 Min Dinner

Looking for a quick, comforting dinner that the whole family loves? The cheesy chicken broccoli skillet combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce all in one pan.

With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a hearty meal that feels indulgent without the fuss. Let’s dive into why this cheesy chicken broccoli skillet is a must‑try.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet Overview

This cheesy chicken broccoli skillet is a balanced mix of protein, veggies, and melty cheese. It’s a healthier take on classic comfort food, delivering flavor without excess calories.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet

The dish is quick, requires only one skillet, and uses pantry‑friendly staples. Plus, the creamy sauce clings perfectly to every bite of chicken and broccoli.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Gather the following items before you start cooking:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite‑size pieces
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese proper Parmesan cheese storage
• ½ cup low‑sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet – Step by Step

Follow these easy steps to create a restaurant‑quality dish at home.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5‑6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add a splash of broth and the minced garlic. Toss in the broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 3‑4 minutes until bright green and tender‑crisp. For more on the health benefits of broccoli, see our guide.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, pour in the remaining broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Chicken

Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, mixing to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

These tips will elevate your cheesy chicken broccoli skillet from good to great.

Tip 1: Use Room‑Temperature Dairy

Bring the heavy cream and cheese to room temperature before adding them to the pan. This prevents clumping and creates a silky sauce.

Tip 2: Don’t Overcook the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli just until it’s tender‑crisp. Overcooking makes it mushy and loses its vibrant color.

Tip 3: Reserve Pasta Water (If Using Pasta)

If you add cooked pasta, keep a cup of the starchy water. It helps the sauce bind to the noodles. For extra flavor, try it with our authentic spaghetti carbonara.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesy chicken broccoli skillet over fluffy rice, quinoa, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

For a complete meal, add a side of classic Caesar salad and our homemade garlic bread.

Storage Instructions

Allow the skillet to cool, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, following the FDA’s food safety guidelines.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to swap ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences.

Variation: Creamy Chicken Broccoli with Whole‑Wheat Pasta

Cook whole‑wheat pasta separately, then combine with the skillet mixture for a heartier meal, such as our creamy penne alla vodka.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately 350 calories, 25 g protein, 12 g fat, and 30 g carbohydrates, making it a balanced dinner option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Below are common questions that help you master this dish.

• Use Room‑Temperature Ingredients: Bring the cream and cheese to room temperature before adding them to the pan. This prevents clumping and creates a silky sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until it’s tender‑crisp. Overcooking makes it mushy and loses its vibrant color.
• Reserve Cooking Liquid: If you serve the skillet over pasta or rice, keep a cup of the starchy cooking liquid. It helps the sauce cling to the grains.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar melts smoother than pre‑shredded packs, which often contain anti‑caking agents.
• Season in Layers: Lightly salt the chicken before searing and finish with a pinch of pepper after adding the sauce for balanced flavor.
• Add a Touch of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the creamy sauce and cuts through richness.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle red‑pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to give the cheesy chicken broccoli skillet a subtle kick.
• Use a Cast‑Iron Skillet: The even heat distribution of cast iron ensures the chicken browns nicely without burning.
• Batch‑Cook for Meal Prep: Double the recipe and store portions in the freezer for quick weeknight meals later.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions just before serving for color and fresh flavor.
• Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.