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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli

A quick, delicious, and nutritious Creamy Chicken and Broccoli recipe featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, velvety sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a balanced blend of protein and vegetables with a creamy texture everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed thoroughly
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce and Cooking Base

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and wash the broccoli florets thoroughly. Mince the garlic to release its fragrant oils. Having everything ready before cooking makes the process smooth and quick.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until they develop a golden crust and are nearly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This locks in moisture and flavor.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp, preserving their nutrients and texture.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, which will enrich the sauce with a creamy texture and savory flavor.
  5. Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the skillet if removed, and mix everything thoroughly. Let the dish simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce coats all ingredients beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor compared to frozen.
  • Don’t overcook chicken to avoid dry, rubbery texture.
  • Grate your own Parmesan cheese for better melting and intensified flavor.
  • Adjust creaminess by adding more broth if the sauce is too thick or more cream for richness.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go for perfectly balanced seasoning.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken, broccoli recipe, quick dinner, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, low-carb chicken, family friendly chicken dish