Golden, juicy chicken breasts nestled among tender broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky cream sauce—this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is comfort food with a touch of elegance. A dish like this transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience, and the best part? It’s made in just one pan, bringing both flavor and convenience straight to your kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this dish delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the slight crunch of fresh broccoli, while the citrusy brightness of lemon cuts through the richness for a balanced bite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

One-pan convenience: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
Rich and satisfying: Perfect blend of protein, veggies, and creaminess.
Customizable: Swap in cauliflower, spinach, or even mushrooms.
Keto and low-carb friendly: It fits various dietary lifestyles.
Fast to make: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Why They Matter)

Before diving into the rich flavors of the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet, having the right tools ready will streamline your process and enhance your cooking results. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each item is essential:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (preferably non-stick or stainless steel): This dish is all about even cooking and a good sear on the chicken. A wide, deep skillet ensures everything cooks evenly and the sauce doesn’t spill over.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken breasts without tearing the golden crust.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Needed for clean, efficient slicing of chicken and trimming broccoli.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface helps maintain safety and keeps your counters clean.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision ensures your sauce turns out creamy and balanced every time.
Whisk: Essential for blending the cream sauce smoothly, preventing clumps.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce and scraping up flavorful bits (fond) from the pan.
Lemon Juicer (optional): If you’re using fresh lemon juice, this tool extracts more juice with less mess.

Preparation Tips

Here are a few chef-level tips to make sure your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet turns out exceptional:

Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: This promotes even cooking and prevents a rubbery texture.
Dry the Chicken Well: Moisture prevents a good sear. Pat each breast dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid of salt, pepper, and herbs—they form the flavor foundation.
Par-Cook the Broccoli: Briefly steam or microwave the broccoli for 1–2 minutes before adding to the skillet to ensure tenderness without overcooking.
Don’t Rush the Sear: Let the chicken develop a golden-brown crust before flipping. It adds texture and locks in moisture.
Deglaze the Pan: Use chicken broth or a splash of white wine to lift the flavorful browned bits into your sauce.
Simmer, Don’t Boil: Once cream is added, lower the heat to a gentle simmer to keep it smooth and luscious.

Ingredients for This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

The secret to this dish’s irresistible flavor lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each component plays a role in building richness, brightness, and heartiness—all in one pan.

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
(Pounded slightly for even thickness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
(To season the chicken and balance the flavors)
2 tablespoons olive oil
(For searing the chicken with a golden crust)
3 cups broccoli florets
(Fresh and lightly steamed or microwaved)
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
(Adds aromatic depth and warmth)

Creamy Sauce Base

1 cup heavy cream
(Creates the rich, silky texture)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
(Adds flavor and thins out the sauce)
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
(For herby background notes)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
(Savory umami kick and helps thicken the sauce)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
(Brightens the dish and balances richness)
Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
(Boosts fresh citrus aroma)

Optional Add-ins

Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
Sliced mushrooms or spinach (for added veggies)
Shredded mozzarella or cream cheese (for extra cheesiness)

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Broccoli

Pound the chicken breasts slightly to even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
Steam or microwave the broccoli florets for 1–2 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in ½ cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the steamed broccoli to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and broccoli.
Pour in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and a little lemon zest if using.
Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly more.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.
Spoon the creamy sauce over each chicken breast.
Serve hot with a wedge of lemon for a fresh finish.

Notes

Chicken Cut Tips: If your chicken breasts are particularly large, feel free to slice them horizontally to create cutlets. They’ll cook faster and more evenly.
Broccoli Texture Preference: For a crunchier texture, skip steaming and just let the broccoli cook in the sauce longer. For ultra-tender broccoli, steam it for a few more minutes beforehand.
Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer or add more Parmesan.
Flavor Boost: A pinch of nutmeg or paprika can add a unique depth to the cream sauce.
Low-Carb Version: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Avoid serving with rice or pasta for a low-carb meal.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Chicken Sear: The golden crust adds flavor and locks in moisture. Don’t rush this step by turning the chicken too soon.
Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry, rubbery chicken. 165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot.
Using Cold Chicken: Placing cold chicken in a hot pan lowers the skillet’s temperature, resulting in uneven cooking and a pale sear.
Overcrowding the Pan: If the chicken doesn’t fit comfortably, cook it in batches. Crowding causes steaming instead of searing.
Boiling the Sauce: High heat can cause cream to break or curdle. Keep it to a gentle simmer.
Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning is a common flavor killer. Taste as you go and adjust.
Adding Cheese to High Heat: Parmesan should be stirred in gently once the sauce is simmering, not boiling, to prevent clumping.
Letting Broccoli Get Mushy: Add it at the right moment—too early and it’ll lose all its bite.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet?

The richness of the creamy sauce and the hearty chicken calls for sides that balance and enhance the meal without overpowering it. Whether you’re aiming for comfort, elegance, or something fresh, these pairings will round out your plate beautifully.

8 Recommendations

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and buttery, they soak up the sauce wonderfully and double down on comfort.
Cauliflower Rice
A low-carb option that’s neutral enough to let the flavors of the skillet shine.
Buttered Egg Noodles
Perfect for catching every drop of sauce, these wide noodles add a rustic touch.
Lemon-Herb Quinoa
A bright, fluffy side that complements the citrus notes in the dish.
Crispy Roasted Potatoes
Crunchy on the outside, fluffy inside—great for textural contrast.
Fresh Garden Salad with Vinaigrette
A tangy, crisp salad brings lightness and keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls
Ideal for swiping through that luxurious cream sauce at the end of your meal.
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Zest
A green-on-green pairing that adds elegance and freshness.

Storage Instructions

Storing your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet properly ensures that leftovers taste just as satisfying the next day—and makes meal prepping a breeze.

Refrigeration: Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: While the chicken and broccoli freeze well, creamy sauces can sometimes separate. If you choose to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Use within 2 months.
Reheating Tips: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)

Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Calories: 460
Protein: 38g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Net Carbs: 6g

This recipe is keto-friendly, gluten-free, and rich in protein, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’re juicier and offer a richer flavor, though they may take a few minutes longer to cook.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but for best results, thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water thinning out your sauce. Flash-sauté it separately if needed to bring back some texture.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, but note that the flavor profile will shift. A dairy-free butter alternative is also recommended.

4. Is this dish good for meal prep?

It’s excellent for meal prep! Store in individual containers and reheat gently. Pair with rice, quinoa, or pasta for an easy lunch.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions. Just be mindful of water content and cook them down before adding the cream.

6. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the cream. Keep your heat at a gentle simmer once dairy is added, and stir often to keep the sauce smooth.

7. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook everything except for adding the broccoli and finishing with lemon. Reheat gently, add broccoli and lemon juice just before serving to preserve texture and brightness.

8. What herbs can I use instead of thyme or Italian seasoning?

Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano can work well. A touch of rosemary can also complement the creamy flavor if used sparingly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is more than just a quick dinner idea—it’s a full-flavored, soul-warming meal that brings ease and elegance to your table. With minimal prep and just one pan, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re following a low-carb plan or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this dish delivers every time.

Its creamy, garlicky sauce and vibrant broccoli create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Serve it once, and you’ll likely add it to your regular meal rotation. Because some recipes aren’t just meals—they’re comfort in a skillet.