why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken with fresh broccoli in a rich garlic cream sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

how to make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Ingredients:

2 pounds (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt (to taste)
Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) paprika
4 tablespoons (60 g) butter, divided for cooking
4 to 5 cloves garlic (minced)
10.5 ounces (298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can), or more if needed
1 cup (240 ml) water
2 to 3 cups (480–710 ml) broccoli, chopped
1 teaspoon (5 ml) fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Directions:

Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika, then set it aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until both sides are nicely browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover, and keep warm.
Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden brown.
Whisk in the condensed cream of chicken soup along with the water, stirring until the mixture is hot, smooth, and bubbling. Reduce the heat to low.
Return the chicken to the pan, along with the chopped broccoli. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. For firmer, more al dente broccoli, wait to add it until the chicken is nearly done so it stays crisp.
Serve warm over rice or pasta, with lemon wedges on the side if desired. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for garnish.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is best served warm. You can serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a filling meal. Adding lemon wedges on the side enhances the flavors and provides a nice tang. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving for added color and a hint of freshness.

how to store Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If needed, you can add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce when reheating.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking for the best flavor.
Sauté the garlic carefully to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
For a thicker sauce, you can add more cream of chicken soup or reduce the amount of water.
To save time, you can use pre-chopped broccoli or frozen broccoli.

variation

Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to customize this dish. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, you may need to cook them for a longer time to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can use a homemade cream sauce or substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then store them separately. Reheat and add the broccoli just before serving to keep it fresh.