If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that’s quick, delicious, and requires barely any cleanup, you’re going to love this One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of tender chicken pieces and vibrant broccoli, all cooked in one pan with simple seasonings and a splash of chicken broth that keeps everything moist and flavorful. The best part? You get a wholesome, comforting meal on the table in just about 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave something nourishing without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring this dish to life. Each component plays a vital role: the chicken provides satisfying protein, broccoli adds a crisp, fresh texture and bright green color, and garlic with spices contribute layers of warming flavor. Simple, approachable, and ready to shine.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up those lovely seasonings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: essential for browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic, adding richness.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: fresh and vibrant, broccoli brings a healthy crunch and beautiful green hues.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: garlic infuses the entire dish with a fragrant, savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: adds a subtle depth and sweetness alongside the garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: gives a gentle smoky note and some inviting color to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: the simple essentials for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- 1/3 cup chicken broth: creates steam to tenderize the broccoli and prevents the dish from drying out.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): a bright splash of acidity to lift the whole dish.
- Grated Parmesan, for topping (optional): adds a savory, cheesy finish, perfect for a little extra indulgence.
How to Make One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the carefully cut chicken pieces and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Let the chicken sear undisturbed to develop a beautiful brown crust for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to cook all sides through. Once golden and cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step locks in juicy flavor and creates the foundation of taste for your dinner.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Cook the Broccoli
If your skillet looks a bit dry, add a small splash of olive oil. Then quickly sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, which will instantly fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Toss in the broccoli florets along with the chicken broth, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the broccoli steam for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. This gentle steaming keeps the broccoli’s nutrients and gives it a perfect texture.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned chicken to the skillet with the broccoli and stir everything together gently. Add the optional lemon juice here if you want a fresh, zesty pop that brightens all the flavors. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors meld perfectly and the pan juices thicken slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Your One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe is ready to be savored! For a finishing touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top for a rich, cheesy flavor that melts slightly into the warm dish. This meal is delicious just as it is or paired alongside rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
How to Serve One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Try a little fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of green and fresh aroma, or a few red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle kick. Grated Parmesan adds savory richness and a slight creaminess that makes every bite extra cozy and satisfying.
Side Dishes
This One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice to soak up the delicious pan juices. Pasta works well too, especially if you want a heartier feel. For a lighter option, cauliflower rice or quinoa complement the flavors without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish stuffed inside warm pita pockets or layered in a vibrant grain bowl with avocado slices and cherry tomatoes. You can also transform it into a hearty wrap with a drizzle of tzatziki or your favorite dressing. Presentation doesn’t have to be fancy to be inviting—sometimes all you need is a nice colorful plate and a sprinkle of herbs to make it restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken remains tender and the broccoli holds its bright color with just a slight softening, making for quick and easy meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a longer time, this dish freezes well. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to press out extra air. It will keep for up to 2 months. When thawed and reheated, the flavors remain intact, though the broccoli may become a bit softer.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems dry. You can also microwave it covered to retain moisture, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to preserve the tender texture of the chicken and broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works fine—just add a little less liquid since frozen releases moisture. Steam it slightly longer to reach the perfect texture, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a more flavorful and juicy cut. Adjust cooking time accordingly since they might take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. It’s ideal for meal prep because it stores well and reheats easily. Portion it into containers for quick lunches or dinners during busy days.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan topping, or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar savory note.
How spicy is this dish?
This One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe is mild by default, but if you like heat, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the seasoning step to give it a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe is one of those dishes that effortlessly combines ease, flavor, and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a no-fuss meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. I can’t recommend it enough — give it a try soon and enjoy the cozy, satisfying goodness made simple!
Print
One-Skillet Chicken and Broccoli Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful one-skillet chicken and broccoli dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are seared and combined with steamed broccoli in a garlic-infused sauce, creating a healthy, balanced meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan, for topping
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and steam broccoli: If necessary, add a splash of olive oil to the pan. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets along with the chicken broth. Cover the skillet and steam the broccoli for 4 to 5 minutes, or until it is tender but still vibrant.
- Combine chicken and broccoli: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Add lemon juice if using, and simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend well.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This meal pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a complete dinner.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and spices for 15 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like green beans or asparagus, adjusting steaming time accordingly.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Grated Parmesan adds a nice savory touch but can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
