If you’re craving a dish that blends comfort with simplicity, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Recipe: Easy One Pan Dinner Recipe is all about rich, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant green broccoli coming together in one glorious pan. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent without demanding hours of cooking or endless dishes to wash afterward. You’ll love how the buttery, cheesy cream sauce hugs every morsel, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward a wonderfully comforting dinner. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, adding texture, or giving the dish that beautiful pop of color.

Chicken breasts (2): Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and great bite-sized flavor boosts.
Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds a fresh, crisp texture and bright green color that balances the creamy sauce.
Butter (2 tbsp): Provides a rich base for cooking the chicken and building flavor layers.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps sear the chicken to a golden goodness without burning the butter.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a subtle kick of flavor.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Deglazes the pan while adding a savory depth to the sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that irresistibly dreamy, velvety texture in the skillet.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Elevates the sauce with a sharp, nutty richness.
Salt, pepper, and paprika: Season to taste and bring all the flavors into perfect balance.

How to Make Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Recipe: Easy One Pan Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces so every forkful delivers a juicy bite. Season them well with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika. This simple seasoning not only enhances natural chicken flavors but adds a hint of warmth and color to the finished dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Heat butter and olive oil together in your skillet until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer, letting it brown nicely without overcrowding. This forms a flavorful crust and locks in moisture. Once golden and cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. This step releases aromas that’ll elevate the sauce, so be sure not to rush it! Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the garlic, which can make the dish bitter.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth first to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom. Then stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring gently until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and utterly luscious.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the golden chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together for about five minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the sumptuous sauce and ensures every bite is creamy and flavorful.

Step 6: Add the Broccoli

Finally, add steamed broccoli florets. Toss gently to coat them in the cheesiness and warmth of the dish without losing their bright color or crisp-tender texture. This part guarantees a beautiful balance of creamy and fresh flavors on your plate.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Recipe: Easy One Pan Dinner Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit more freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of chopped fresh parsley or basil to add freshness and a burst of color that makes the dish even more inviting. A twist of lemon zest on top can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands out on its own but pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice, warm crusty bread, or your favorite pasta to soak up all the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or zoodles make excellent choices for soaking up every bit of creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, serve the Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Recipe: Easy One Pan Dinner Recipe in the skillet itself—it looks rustic and cozy that way. You can also plate it in shallow bowls to emphasize the creamy sauce and add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an unexpected crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within three days to retain the creaminess and freshness of the broccoli.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your leftovers, transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind the broccoli texture might soften upon thawing, but the chicken and sauce will remain delicious. Frozen portions last well up to two months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating can revive the creamy texture beautifully if it thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, though cooking times may vary slightly. Be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as thick or rich.

How do I steam the broccoli perfectly for this recipe?

Steam broccoli florets for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender but still bright green and just slightly crisp. Avoid overcooking so they hold their texture when tossed in the skillet.

Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas would be delicious additions. Add them based on their cooking times to keep every veggie perfectly cooked.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?

Grated Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar can work in a pinch, but Parmesan really brings that signature nutty richness essential to the dish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Skillet Recipe: Easy One Pan Dinner Recipe enough if you want a meal that feels homemade and indulgent without a fuss. It’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself turning to again and again because it hits all the right notes—creamy, comforting, and super satisfying. Give it a try tonight, and I bet it’ll become a favorite in your dinner rotation too!