If you’re looking for a quick, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor and made in just one pan, this Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken is cooked with fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes.

This easy skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want something hearty without a pile of dishes. It’s creamy, satisfying, and completely customizable — whether you’re serving it over rice, pasta, or enjoying it low-carb on its own.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet

• One-pan meal (easy cleanup!)
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• High-protein and satisfying
• Creamy, cheesy comfort food
• Family-friendly flavors
• Great for meal prep

It’s the kind of recipe that becomes part of your regular dinner rotation.

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What Makes This Recipe So Good?

This dish works because it balances:

• Juicy seasoned chicken
• Bright, tender broccoli
• Creamy cheese sauce
• Simple pantry ingredients

The broccoli adds freshness and texture, while the cheese sauce ties everything together into a cozy, comforting skillet meal.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet

Main Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional additions:

• Red pepper flakes
• Cream cheese for extra richness
• Cooked rice or pasta

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season chicken pieces with:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning

Add to skillet and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Remove from pan and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add broccoli florets.

Cook 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Add a splash of water and cover briefly if you prefer softer broccoli.

Remove and set aside with chicken.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same pan:

1. Melt butter.
2. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
3. Slowly add chicken broth while whisking.
4. Stir in milk or cream.

Simmer until thickened.

Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken and broccoli to skillet.

Stir gently to coat in sauce.

Simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Serve immediately.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

This dish delivers:

• Tender, juicy chicken
• Slightly crisp-tender broccoli
• Velvety cheese sauce
• Savory garlic and herb notes
• Balanced richness

The creamy sauce clings beautifully to every bite.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

1. Cut Chicken Evenly

Ensures even cooking.

2. Don’t Overcook Broccoli

Keep it bright green for better texture.

3. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.

4. Simmer Gently

Avoid high heat once cheese is added.

5. Adjust Sauce Thickness

Add broth to thin or simmer longer to thicken.

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Delicious Variations

1. Low-Carb Version

Skip flour and thicken with cream cheese.

2. Add Rice

Stir in cooked rice for a complete skillet meal.

3. Pasta Version

Add cooked penne or rotini for cheesy chicken broccoli pasta.

4. Spicy Kick

Add cayenne or red pepper flakes.

5. Mushroom Boost

Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding sauce.

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What to Serve with Cheesy Broccoli Chicken

• Steamed rice
• Buttered noodles
• Mashed potatoes
• Garlic bread
• Side salad

It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with simple sides.

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator:

Store in airtight container up to 4 days.

Freezer:

Freeze up to 2 months (best without broccoli slightly undercooked).

Reheat:

Warm gently in skillet with splash of milk to loosen sauce.

Avoid overheating to prevent sauce separation.

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Nutritional Highlights

• High in protein from chicken
• Fiber and vitamins from broccoli
• Calcium from cheese

For a lighter version:

• Use half-and-half instead of cream
• Reduce cheese slightly
• Use olive oil instead of butter

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking chicken (dry texture)
• Adding cheese over high heat
• Using too much flour
• Skipping seasoning

Balanced seasoning makes a big difference.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes — thaw and drain excess moisture first.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely — they add more flavor and stay juicy.

Is this gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes — perfect for reheating lunches.

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Why This Recipe Works

• One-pan cooking builds layered flavor
• Proper roux creates smooth sauce
• Balanced cheese blend prevents heaviness
• Quick cooking keeps vegetables vibrant

It’s simple but delivers big comfort.

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Perfect for Any Occasion

• Busy weeknight dinner
• Family-friendly meal
• Meal prep
• Potluck
• Cozy comfort craving

It’s satisfying without being complicated.

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Make It Even More Special

For presentation:

• Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top
• Garnish with fresh parsley
• Add cracked black pepper
• Serve in cast iron skillet

Simple touches elevate it visually.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a velvety cheese sauce into a one-pan dinner that everyone will love.

It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is practical enough for everyday cooking.

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