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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
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Creamy chicken and broccoli is a comforting and simple dinner recipe featuring tender chicken breast and fresh broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, butter, and olive oil. This dish is quick to prepare, balanced in nutrition, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Dairy and Fats

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Flavorings and Seasonings

  • 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop broccoli into florets. Mince fresh garlic to bring bright, aromatic flavor to the dish.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to keep it juicy.
  3. Sauté Broccoli and Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then add broccoli florets. Sauté until broccoli is tender-crisp, maintaining its vibrant green color and slight crunch.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir well. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, letting it melt into the sauce while gently simmering to create a rich, silky texture. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
  5. Combine Chicken and Broccoli: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and broccoli fully with the creamy sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors perfectly. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli and garlic for the best flavor and texture.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Simmer the cream sauce gently to maintain a smooth texture and prevent curdling.
  • Add Parmesan cheese gradually for a silky, lump-free sauce.
  • Taste and season carefully since Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze cooked chicken and broccoli separately from the sauce for best texture when freezing.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken broccoli, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, gluten free, chicken recipe, quick dinner

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/creamy-chicken-and-broccoli/