Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

When I think about comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet always comes to mind. I still remember the first time I made it on a busy weekday evening, craving something warm and satisfying but unwilling to spend too long cooking. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled the kitchen, and the golden chicken with vibrant broccoli made the dish as beautiful as it was delicious. That memory keeps me coming back to this recipe whenever I need a reliable meal that pleases everyone at the table.

This dish feels like the best of both worlds: hearty and comforting while also fresh and light, thanks to the broccoli and touch of lemon. The cream sauce is smooth and flavorful, coating each bite of tender chicken with just the right richness. It’s the kind of recipe you can serve to your family during the week or bring out on the weekend when guests come over. Each time, it feels like a win because it’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require a sink full of dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: This skillet adapts easily to your needs. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. You can even change up the vegetables—green beans, zucchini, or spinach all work beautifully.

• Budget-Friendly: With simple pantry staples like chicken, garlic, and butter, this recipe won’t stretch your grocery budget. You’ll create a hearty dinner without fancy or expensive ingredients.

• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce softens the flavors just enough for kids to enjoy while still being flavorful for adults. It’s one of those rare dishes that truly pleases a crowd.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

• 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)

This creamy chicken skillet proves that a wholesome, comforting dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. With just one pan and simple steps, you’ll enjoy a flavorful, balanced meal that brings warmth to your table every single time.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

This recipe comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The balance of juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and silky garlic cream sauce makes it a dish that always feels special without demanding complicated techniques. Let’s walk through each step together so you can recreate it in your own kitchen with ease.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

1. Season the chicken
   Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a clean surface. Sprinkle them evenly with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a touch of paprika. This simple seasoning enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and ensures each bite is well balanced. Once seasoned, set the chicken aside while you prepare the skillet.

2. Sear the chicken
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Wait until the butter is hot and bubbling before adding the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them for about five minutes per side. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover it lightly with foil, and keep it warm.

3. Make the garlic base
   In the same skillet, melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and stir continuously as it cooks. Within a minute, the garlic will turn golden and release a fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

4. Create the cream sauce
   Whisk in the condensed cream of chicken soup and one cup of water. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble. The sauce should thicken slightly while still being creamy and pourable. Lower the heat to prevent sticking and ensure the sauce maintains its silky texture.

5. Combine chicken and broccoli
   Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Scatter the chopped broccoli around the chicken pieces. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow everything to simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken finishes cooking through while the broccoli becomes tender yet crisp. For those who prefer firmer broccoli, you can wait until the chicken is almost done before adding the vegetable.

6. Finishing touches
   Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. This adds color and a subtle freshness. If desired, squeeze lemon wedges over the top for brightness. The citrus balances the richness of the cream sauce, making the flavors pop even more.

Quick and Easy

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you need only about thirty minutes. With a short prep time of ten minutes and a cooking time of twenty minutes, this dish works perfectly for weeknights when time is short but a hearty meal is still desired.

The use of condensed cream of chicken soup streamlines the process. Instead of making a sauce entirely from scratch, you get a creamy, flavorful base instantly, which saves effort while still delivering excellent results.

Customizable

This recipe is very adaptable. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts. If you want to avoid condensed soup, replace it with a homemade mixture of chicken stock and a splash of milk thickened with a little flour or cornstarch.

The vegetables are also flexible. Broccoli works well, but cauliflower, asparagus, or green beans would fit seamlessly. You can even add mushrooms for extra depth or spinach at the end for a boost of color and nutrition.

For serving, you are not limited to one choice. This skillet pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Each option allows the sauce to soak in, creating a full and satisfying meal.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you are cooking for family or guests, this skillet is a guaranteed hit. The flavors are familiar yet elevated by the garlic and creamy sauce. Children enjoy the mild taste, while adults appreciate the balance of textures and richness.

Because the recipe yields about six servings, it is excellent for gatherings or meal prep. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and reheat easily, making it practical as well as delicious.

The presentation also deserves attention. The golden chicken surrounded by bright green broccoli in a velvety cream sauce looks beautiful when served straight from the pan. With a sprinkle of parsley and a wedge of lemon, the dish feels restaurant-quality even though it was cooked in your own kitchen.

In the end, this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Skillet manages to be quick, easy, customizable, and crowd-pleasing all at once. It is the kind of recipe you will return to again and again, both for weeknight comfort and special occasions.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They provide extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.

How do I keep the broccoli crisp?
To keep broccoli more al dente, add it toward the end of the cooking process. Instead of simmering it for the full ten minutes, stir it in during the last five minutes so it retains its vibrant color and crunch.

Can I make this recipe without condensed soup?
Absolutely. Replace the condensed cream of chicken soup with a quick homemade sauce. Combine chicken broth, a splash of milk, and a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken it. This option creates a similar creamy texture while keeping the dish wholesome.

What can I serve this dish with?
This skillet pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce clings to each side dish, making every option delicious and filling.

Does it reheat well?
Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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