Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: A Comfort Food Delight

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There’s something about a creamy chicken and broccoli dish that brings comfort to the soul, like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a luscious, velvety sauce, with vibrant green broccoli adding both color and crunch. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your family flocking to the dinner table faster than you can say “dinner is ready!”

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This delightful recipe has been a staple in my household for as long as I can remember. I still recall my mom making this dish on busy weeknights, her laughter bubbling over as she tried to keep my little brother from sneaking bites before it was served. Now, I whip it up for my own family, creating new memories while savoring the familiar flavors. Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at a potluck—this creamy chicken and broccoli recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy chicken and broccoli dish combines rich flavors with simple preparation steps.
  • The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
  • It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or even on its own!
  • Plus, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!

 

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets that are firm; they add great nutrition and crunch.
  • Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its signature creaminess; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; use more if you’re a garlic lover!
  • Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness in the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan will melt beautifully into the sauce; trust me, it’s worth it!
  • Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the chicken and garlic without sticking.

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: A touch of soy sauce deepens the flavor; go for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight

 

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First things first—chop those broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Mince your garlic cloves until they resemble tiny flavor bombs ready to explode in your mouth!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden brown on both sides—about five minutes per side should do just fine. You want that beautiful sear!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In that same glorious skillet (hello leftover flavor!), toss in minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté them until fragrant and bright green—around three minutes will do.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with garlic and broccoli. Stir well, then sprinkle in freshly grated parmesan cheese and soy sauce. Let this simmer for about five minutes until everything melds together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Slice your rested chicken into strips or cubes (whatever suits your fancy). Return it to the skillet, allowing those tender pieces to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Transfer everything onto plates and watch as everyone dives in like hungry lions at dinner time! Drizzle extra sauce over each serving for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of creamy chicken and broccoli that warms hearts while pleasing taste buds! Enjoy every last bite while sharing stories around the table; after all, great food deserves great company!

You Must Know

  • This delightful creamy chicken and broccoli dish brings comfort and joy to any table.
  • With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a meal that warms both the heart and the belly.
  • Easy to make, it’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown before adding the broccoli. While that’s happening, whisk together your creamy sauce in another pan. This sequence ensures everything cooks perfectly without leaving you scrambling at the last minute.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies like spinach or asparagus. Spice things up with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or red pepper flakes, or even add some cheese on top for an extra layer of gooey goodness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve that perfect creamy texture, don’t rush adding your dairy; let it meld slowly into the dish.
  • Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for vibrant flavors.
  • Always taste as you go; a pinch of salt can elevate your dish tremendously!

Sometimes I whip this dish up after a long day when I just need something comforting. One time, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it and insisted I open a restaurant – maybe one day!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight?

To prepare this delightful dish, you will need boneless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, heavy cream, garlic, onion, and seasoning like salt and pepper. You can also add grated cheese for extra creaminess and flavor. These ingredients come together to create a rich sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and broccoli, making it a hearty meal.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Chicken and Broccoli?

The total cooking time for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli is around 30 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes of cooking on the stove. It’s a quick dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal in no time.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli healthier?

Yes! To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also increase the amount of broccoli or substitute other vegetables like spinach or kale. This way, you can enjoy the creamy goodness while keeping your meal nutritious.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli?

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or whole grain pasta. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of leafy greens or alongside a simple salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the dish while adding extra nutrients to your meal.

Conclusion for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight :

In summary, Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Comfort Food Delight is an easy recipe that combines tender chicken with fresh broccoli in a luscious cream sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends alike. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, you can delight your family with this comforting dish any day of the week. Enjoy every creamy bite!

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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

Instructions

  1. 1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic.
  2. 2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest.
  3. 3. Add Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and bright green.
  4. 4. Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well, then mix in Parmesan cheese and soy sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined.
  5. 5. Combine Chicken with Sauce: Slice rested chicken into strips or cubes and return to the skillet to soak up the creamy sauce.
  6. 6. Serve: Transfer to plates, drizzle extra sauce over each serving, and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

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