Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet

Name: Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 head Broccoli (cut into florets); 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup Heavy cream; 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

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Is there a recipe for you guys? How did I tell you about that crazy week last month? The one where I felt like I was running a marathon, juggling work, kids, and trying to keep everyone happy. What is your favorite Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet recipe? Is it like a warm hug in the skillet? My family practically inhaled it the first time I made it, and now it’s a regular on our dinner table. Isn’t it just me and my Grandma’s Chicken Pot Pie? If you’re looking for something delicious, comforting, and totally doable on a busy day, trust me. What is a good weeknight meal to try? I promise, you won’t regret it.

What is a Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet?

So, at its heart, this dish is a one-pan wonder. What is a super-charged version of chicken and broccoli? What is lotta cheese? What is the best combination of chicken and broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce? How do you cook a chicken in one skillet? What is the beauty of this **Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet**? All those delicious flavors. Is it a complete meal in itself? What is the clean-up like? I like to think of it as a hug in supper, ready to be devoured on chilly evening.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, let me tell you why I’m absolutely obsessed with this **Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet**. First off, the FLAVOR. Seriously, the combination of the savory chicken, slightly bitter broccoli, and rich, cheesy sauce is just… *chef’s kiss*. It’s pure Comfort Food, but it doesn’t leave you feeling heavy and sluggish. The simplicity is another HUGE win. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped this up when I’m short on time or energy. It takes less than an hour from start to finish, and most of that time is hands-off cooking. It’s seriously easier than ordering takeout. Plus, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. Chicken and broccoli are budget-friendly ingredients, and you probably have most of the other ingredients in your pantry already. Compared to some of my other recipes, this one keeps the grocery bill down, which is always a plus! And finally, the versatility! You can customize it to your heart’s content. Want to add some bell peppers? Go for it! Feeling spicy? Throw in some red pepper flakes. I’ve even added some cooked pasta to the skillet at the end for a heartier meal. This recipe is my go-to when I’m craving something delicious, and quick!

Quick Overview

What is the lowdown? What are some good ways to make a cheese sauce? In the same skillet. Everything comes together in One Pan. Super easy, I promise! Next up, you’ll just add the chicken back in, cover it all with cheese, and bake until it’s bubbly. What is the best part about a single skillet? What is a weeknight game changer?

Ingredients

For the Main Players: For a general player:
Chicken: I usually grab about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer thighs because they stay super tender, but breasts work too. If you’re using breasts, try to cut them into roughly equal-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Broccoli: You’ll need about 1 pound of fresh broccoli florets. I usually buy a head of broccoli and chop it myself. Can I use pre-cut florets? A couple tablespoons, for searing the chicken and sautéing the broccoli. I love using extra virgin olive oil for that extra flavor. Salt and Black Pepper: Is it a good combination of salt and black pepper? How do I season chicken and broccoli?

For the Creamy, Cheesy Dream:
Butter: About 2 tablespoons, to melt and start the sauce. Unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness.
Flour: 2 tablespoons, all-purpose works great. This will help thicken the sauce.
Milk: 1.5 cups, I usually use whole milk for the richest flavor, but 2% or even almond milk works in a pinch. The almond milk makes it slightly less creamy but still delish!
Shredded Cheese: 2 cups of a good melting cheese. I usually use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but a combo of Gruyère and Parmesan is divine!
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds so much flavor, but you can also use about a teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a hurry.

Spice It Up (Optional): What are some
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch, for a little kick. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. What is onion powder? Just a dash of lemon to give you deeper flavor, but use sparingly.

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet – I usually use a cast iron skillet, but any oven-safe pan will do. Place your skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. Then, chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets. You want them to be roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate. Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go because this recipe moves fast!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Add a tablespoon of olive oil to your heated skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add your chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper. How long should you marinate chicken? You want those beautiful golden-brown bits of chicken! Take the chicken out of the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Is it safe to toss broccoli florets with salt and pepper? Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is slightly tender and has turned a vibrant green. Is it okay to cook in the oven?

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

What is the best way to make a cheese sauce? How do you melt butter in a skillet? Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, until it turns into an ice cream. What is a roux? Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly, until it starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Is it safe to stir in the cheese? If you’re using garlic, stir it in here. Now, taste and adjust the seasoning. What are some good Italian seasonings for this recipe? Is there a boost of flavor

Step 5: Combine Chicken & Broccoli

Add the chicken back into the skillet with the broccoli. How do I stir together chicken and broccoli to make a creamy cheese sauce?

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

In a preheated oven, bake the chicken for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside. When cheese is melted, it will be bubbly. What are the best ways to cook broccoli? Keep an eye on it – you want everything to be perfectly cooked, but not overcooked.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve immediately. Is it delicious on its own? I usually serve with a side of Crusty Bread for dipping in that amazing cheese sauce.

What should I serve it with?

Let’s talk about side dishes! What is a healthy chicken skewer? Something extra. What are some great side dishes to serve with breakfast? What is a good meal to eat to get through the day? For a brunch, try adding some fresh, light salad, such as this simple green salad with lemon. To keep things simple, I often add some sliced tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. What is a good dessert to serve with fresh berries? What is a good combination of savory skillet and sweet dessert? I usually make a simple dipping sauce for my snacks. I don’t have any idea what to make. Can you use plain Greek yogurt and some dill for a classic combination? I like to make it even easier and just serve it with tortilla chips for dipping!

What are some of the best ways to make a Cheesy Chicken Skillet?

After making this dish a hundred times (okay, maybe an exaggeration, but close! I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks to make it even better. If you are planning to make it and want some tips, read on:Zucchini Prep:I always make sure to pat the zucchini dry with paper towels before grating it. How do you remove excess moisture from a dish? If you’re short on time, you can skip the grating step and just slice the zucchini thinly.Mixing Advice:Don’t overmix the batter! Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten and result in a tougher cake.Swirl CustomizationWhen swirling the batter, don’t overdo it. A few passes with a knife are usually enough. You want a nice marble effect, not just mixed-together cake.Ingredient Swaps:I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier! Is gluten free flour a good substitute for regular flour? For the chicken, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or canned chicken in a pinch!Baking Tips:Keep an eye on your oven! Is it possible to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time? I usually insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready!Glaze Variations:While the simple glaze is delicious, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the glaze.

What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?

What are some good recipes for Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillets? How do you store and reheat it, so you can enjoy it later?Room Temperature:If you’re planning to serve it within a couple of hours, you can leave it at room temperature, if you like. Can you cover it longer than that and it will need to be refrigerated?Refrigerator Storage: HowStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing. How do I keep my Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet from getting a bit mushy?What is the best wayFor longer storage, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Can you freeze it for up to 3 months?What is Glaze Timing Advice? If you’re freezing the cake, I recommend adding the glaze after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it’s a blend that works well for baking, as some gluten-free flours can be grainy. You might need to add a little extra milk to get the right consistency.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

That’s really a matter of personal preference! I usually don’t bother, as the peel adds a little extra fiber and nutrients. The texture is fine if you grate it. If you prefer a smoother texture, go ahead and peel it.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Yes, you can! Grease and flour a muffin tin, then fill each cup about ¾ full. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of sugar in the batter. You can also use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

You can dust it with powdered sugar, or even top it with a simple whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! My absolute favorite **Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Skillet**. It’s become such a staple in my house because it’s easy, delicious, and everyone in my family loves it. I seriously hope you give this recipe a try. It’s the perfect way to turn a simple weeknight into something special. And if you enjoy it, be sure to check out some of my other recipes on the website. I have a lot of delicious dishes for you all to try! Also, let me know what you think in the comments and share your favorite variations of this dish. Happy cooking and can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

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