If you are craving a dish that is both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It masterfully combines tender, golden chicken breasts with crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce that brings everything together. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and a harmony of subtle spices and fresh ingredients, making it not just a weeknight go-to but also a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each plays a crucial role, whether it be building flavor, adding creaminess, or providing that satisfying contrast of textures and colors. Getting these basics right sets you up for a delicious outcome that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and mild, perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds depth and a hint of Mediterranean charm.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Essential for cooking the chicken and sautéing the broccoli, lending richness without heaviness.
- 1 1/2 cup almond milk or any other milk: The creamy base for the sauce, offering smoothness and subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or any other flour: The thickening agent that turns the sauce silky and luscious.
- 1 medium broccoli head, chopped (about 3 cups): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color, bursting with nutrients.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh herbal note to brighten the dish at the end.
- Lemon wedges, optional to serve: Provides a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Rub the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, and the aromatic Italian seasoning. This simple rub infuses the chicken with flavor, setting the stage for juicy, savory bites that complement the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the almond milk and flour until completely smooth. This mixture will serve as the base of the creamy sauce, ensuring it coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly without any lumps.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This creates a deliciously caramelized exterior that seals in the juices. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside for now.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Using the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté some garlic until fragrant — this wakes up the flavors beautifully. Then pour in the prepared almond milk mixture and toss in the chopped broccoli. Let the broccoli cook gently in this creamy sauce until it becomes tender but still retains a slight crunch, making it lively and fresh against the rich sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the golden chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them snugly into the creamy broccoli sauce. Let everything heat through for a few minutes so that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve with a few lemon wedges on the side for an optional bright, citrusy lift.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that not only adds a pop of green but lifts the aroma and freshness of this dish. If you enjoy a hint of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice generates a perfect balance against the creamy richness. For a bit of texture, you might also consider toasted pine nuts or a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce beautifully. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, or steamed jasmine rice offer comforting bases. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to brighten your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, serve this dish straight from the skillet, letting everyone help themselves. If you want to impress guests, plate the chicken over a vibrant bed of your favorite grain, drizzle with extra sauce, and add colorful microgreens or edible flowers on top. Individual ramekins with a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs can also add a fun textural contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your creamy chicken and broccoli to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, your leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready for a quick and satisfying meal at any time.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to slightly undercook the broccoli to maintain its texture upon reheating.
Reheating
To keep the sauce silky and chicken moist, gently reheat your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or water can revive the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and even more juiciness. Just adjust cooking time so the thighs are fully cooked and tender.
Is almond milk necessary in this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?
Nope! You can swap almond milk for any milk you prefer, whether dairy or another plant-based option. Choose unsweetened varieties to keep the flavors balanced.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Using gluten-free flour is all it takes to keep this recipe friendly to gluten sensitivities without compromising on creaminess.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
To maintain broccoli’s satisfying crunch, cook it just until tender in the sauce, rather than boiling or over-simmering. A quick sauté and gentle simmer works best.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger pan or cook in batches to ensure even cooking and perfect sauce consistency for more servings.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a delicious revelation — simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it promises a satisfying and cozy meal that’s easy to make and hard to forget. Don’t hesitate to give it a whirl and make this your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy chicken and broccoli recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and coated in a smooth, flavorful almond milk-based sauce with sautéed broccoli. It’s a wholesome, quick, and delicious dinner option that’s perfect for weeknights, combining protein and veggies in a comforting creamy dish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Sauce & Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cup almond milk (or any other milk)
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour (or any other flour)
- 1 medium broccoli head, chopped (about 3 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, optional to serve
Instructions
- Rub the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together almond milk and gluten-free flour until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This will create a creamy base for the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the garlic briefly until fragrant, then pour in the almond milk and flour mixture. Add the chopped broccoli and cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon wedges for added brightness before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Any milk can be used, but almond milk keeps the dish lighter and dairy-free.
- Gluten-free flour is used here, but all-purpose flour works fine if gluten is not a concern.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain for a complete meal.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
