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When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes offer the comforting embrace of a creamy chicken and broccoli skillet bake. This dish is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a velvety sauce, all cooked together in one pan. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that appeals to both adults and children alike. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet Bake

Discover the ultimate weeknight comfort food with this creamy chicken and broccoli skillet bake recipe! This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, velvety sauce for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy evenings, it minimizes cleanup while delivering on flavor. Enjoy every bite with this delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and creamy goodness. Perfect for dinner or meal prep!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked white rice (or your preferred grain)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the skillet, and set it aside on a plate.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic. If using fresh broccoli, add it now and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. For frozen broccoli, wait until the next step to add it.

      Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Incorporate the cooked rice, mixing thoroughly. If you're using frozen broccoli, add it at this point, allowing everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes to ensure the broccoli is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.

        Combine Ingredients: Gradually return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the creamy sauce.

          Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly, creating a delectable topping.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli bake hot, directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4