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Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet (One-Pan, Creamy & Family-Friendly)


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, 2 tbsp cream cheese for extra silkiness
For garnish:
  • Fresh parsley
  • Extra shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Sear chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook 5–6 min until golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté veggies: In same skillet, add onion; cook 3–4 min until soft. Stir in garlic and broccoli; cook 2 min.
  3. Deglaze & simmer: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a simmer; cook 3–4 min until broccoli is crisp-tender.
  4. Make sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes or cream cheese. Simmer 2–3 min.
  5. Add cheese & chicken: Stir in cheddar until melted. Return chicken to skillet; cook 2–3 min until heated through.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese.
💡 Pro Tips:
– For extra flavor, add ½ tsp Dijon mustard or a splash of white wine with the broth.
– Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
– Serve over rice, quinoa, or crusty bread—or enjoy as-is!

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 30 min
Servings: 4 | Calories: 420 | Net Carbs: 8g | Fats: 28g | Protein: 34g