Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the ideal cozy weeknight dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce, all topped with flaky pastry. This one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also offers a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for busy evenings. As soon as I take the first bite, I am reminded of home-cooked warmth and the joy of family dinners. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
This Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- It’s a healthy Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken dish that keeps the calorie count low without sacrificing flavor.
- This recipe is incredibly easy and can be made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- The creamy cheddar sauce envelops the chicken and broccoli, creating a delightful taste experience.
- With its quick skillet chicken with broccoli approach, you can whip this meal up in under an hour.
- This dish is versatile; it can be served as a family dinner or as an impressive meal for guests.
- It’s a delicious Cheddar Broccoli Chicken Skillet recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Gather these items:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF version)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for extra creaminess
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or a pinch of dried rosemary)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional for extra color and sweetness)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (for the topping) or biscuit topping as a substitution
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash on pastry)
- Pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Make Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in the broccoli and cook just until bright green and a touch tender, 2–3 minutes.
- Step 3: Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables; cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
- Step 4: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking often, until it thickens into a creamy sauce, about 4–6 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in the shredded chicken, peas (if using), thyme, and half of the cheddar. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for another minute or two.
- Step 6: Increase the heat slightly and reduce the sauce to your desired thickness. If it isn’t thick enough, simmer a few minutes longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Step 7: If topping with puff pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed puff pastry on top, score slits for steam, then brush with beaten egg. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Step 8: If not using puff pastry, stir gently, sprinkle with remaining cheddar, and let it melt. Serve with biscuit topping or mashed potatoes.
- Step 9: Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- This dish is great for busy weeknights.
- Use frozen broccoli for convenience.
- Substitute chicken with turkey or a vegetarian option if desired.
- For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some cream cheese.
Best Ways to Serve Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Here are some serving ideas:
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Top with additional cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy delight.
How to Store and Reheat Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and heat over medium until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
What is Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?
Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a comforting and hearty dish that combines shredded chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.
Can I make Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients and assemble the dish ahead of time; just bake it before serving for a warm, comforting meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps, and taste the sauce as it cooks to adjust seasoning as needed.
Variations of Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken You Can Try
Here are some delicious variations:
- Use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
- Add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- For a low-carb option, substitute the puff pastry with a cauliflower mash topping.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast.
For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, visit Healthline.
For a sweet finish, try our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe or Mini Pistachio Tartlets Recipe.
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Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: 5 Cozy Weeknight Dishes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie is a cozy weeknight dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce topped with flaky pastry.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF version)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for extra creaminess
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or a pinch of dried rosemary)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional for extra color and sweetness)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (for the topping) or biscuit topping as a substitution
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash on pastry)
- Pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, sauté the onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the broccoli and cook just until bright green and a touch tender, 2–3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables; cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking often, until it thickens into a creamy sauce, about 4–6 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, peas (if using), thyme, and half of the cheddar. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for another minute.
- Increase the heat slightly and adjust the sauce thickness as desired. If it isn’t thick enough, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
- If topping with puff pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed puff pastry on top, score slits for steam, then brush with beaten egg. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
- If not using puff pastry, stir gently, sprinkle with remaining cheddar, and let it melt. Serve with biscuit topping or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs. Serve hot.
- Savor the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp edges of the topping.
- For a lighter option, reduce cheese and use cream cheese for silkiness.
Notes
- This dish is great for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Skillet Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, Pot Pie, Comfort Food, Weeknight Dinner