Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet – One-Pan Comfort Dinner Recipe

Imagine tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic sauce, paired with perfectly cooked broccoli. This one-pan dish is both hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal dinner option.

With just 30 minutes of cook time and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into even the busiest evenings. The balance of rich flavors and fresh vegetables makes it a standout meal.

Why this one-pan chicken and broccoli skillet is a must-try

• The creamy garlic sauce is rich yet balanced, coating every bite of chicken and broccoli.
• Cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to clean and more time to enjoy your meal.
• With simple pantry staples, this dish feels gourmet without requiring extra effort.

Ingredients you’ll need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to prepare this creamy garlic chicken and broccoli skillet

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor. Bring the broth to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to low and add the broccoli florets. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli cook for about 5 minutes, or until tender but still vibrant.

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt and the chicken to warm through.

Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience.

Perfect pairings for this dish

Serve this skillet meal with crusty bread to soak up the creamy garlic sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.

Steamed rice or buttery mashed potatoes also complement the dish beautifully, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

How to store and reheat leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, but thaw the broccoli first and adjust the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to adapt the recipe.