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Everyday Kitchen Ideas
Dinner

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

Tender chicken and fresh broccoli coated in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner and tastes delicious served with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Preparation
10 minutes
Cooking
25 minutes
Servings
4
Creamy garlic chicken and broccoli in a creamy Parmesan sauce, served in a cream-colored skillet with fresh herbs and black pepper.

Ingredients

FOR THE CHICKEN

  • large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), sliced horizontally or into cutlets — 2
  • olive oil — 1 tbsp
  • butter — 1 tbsp
  • paprika — 1 tsp
  • garlic powder — ½ tsp
  • Italian seasoning — ½ tsp
  • salt, or to taste — ½ tsp
  • black pepper — ¼ tsp

FOR THE CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE

  • butter — 1 tbsp
  • garlic cloves — 5–6 (minced)
  • all-purpose flour — 1 tbsp
  • chicken broth — 1 cup (240 ml)
  • heavy cream — 1 cup (240 ml)
  • freshly grated Parmesan cheese — ½ cup
  • Italian seasoning — ½ tsp
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

FOR THE BROCCOLI

  • broccoli florets — 2 cups
  • olive oil or butter — 1 tsp
  • water — 2–3 tbsp (for steaming if needed)

OPTIONAL GARNISH

  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Step 1: Season the Chicken

    Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

  2. Step 2: Cook the Chicken

    Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.

  3. Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

    Add the broccoli and 2–3 tablespoons of water to the skillet. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to a plate.

  4. Step 4: Make the Garlic Base

    Reduce the heat to medium. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute.

  5. Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

    Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

  6. Step 6: Add the Parmesan

    Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed.

  7. Step 7: Combine and Serve

    Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over everything and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.

  8. Step 8: Serve

    Serve hot with steamed white rice, fettuccine or penne pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help it develop a golden-brown exterior.
  • Slice the chicken into evenly sized cutlets so the pieces cook more consistently.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Avoid overcooking the broccoli. Steam it until bright green and just tender so it retains some texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce that melts more evenly.
  • Add the chicken broth gradually while whisking to help prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
  • Simmer the cream sauce gently rather than boiling it vigorously to help maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in a little extra chicken broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
  • Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning as needed.
  • Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for extra flavor and an appealing presentation.
  • Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to enjoy the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.