Creamy Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal with this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Skillet. Tender chicken thighs, fresh broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce come together in one pan for an easy and delicious dinner.

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Skillet is the perfect weeknight dinner that’s both quick and satisfying. With juicy chicken thighs, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce, this dish offers a balanced meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of dried basil and paprika adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 tablespoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce

1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
2-3 cups broccoli florets
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 tablespoon dried basil
Fresh basil, garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the dried basil, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Create a Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic and butter, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
Add Evaporated Milk: Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add Dried Basil and Broccoli: Stir in the dried basil and add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Return Chicken to Skillet: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce and broccoli.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations

Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for an extra creamy, cheesy flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

Flour Substitute: Use almond flour or coconut flour to make the roux for the sauce.
Milk Substitute: Use heavy cream instead of evaporated milk to reduce carbs and increase fat content.

Low-Carb Version:

Flour Substitute: Use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of all-purpose flour.
Vegetables: Ensure all vegetables used are low in carbs.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Skillet is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce makes this meal a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh milk instead of evaporated milk?

A: Yes, you can substitute evaporated milk with an equal amount of fresh milk. For a richer sauce, you might consider using half-and-half or heavy cream.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them in the skillet to reheat before serving.