If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both wholesome and easy to make, this Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender pieces of juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli florets swim in a luscious, velvety sauce loaded with sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan, making every bite a delicious celebration of cozy goodness. It’s a family-friendly, one-pan wonder that comes together quickly with simple ingredients, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the fuss.

Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture, from the tender chicken to the rich sauce and fresh broccoli that adds both color and a pleasant crunch.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy bites.
1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity flavor and a perfect base for sautéing the chicken.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, they add vibrant color, nutrition, and a tender crunch.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with rich, aromatic flavor that wakes up the palate.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, creamy texture that envelops all the ingredients.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess with a savory undertone.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Brightens the sauce with a subtle tang and complexity.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and slight bite.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Brings a hint of sweetness and umami to the sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, sharp goodness that defines the dish.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a rich, nutty note and extra creaminess.
Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, green garnish that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully golden and cooked through. This step ensures that your chicken stays juicy inside while developing a tasty crust on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, it’s going back into the sauce soon!

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This quick step releases the essence of garlic that will infuse your sauce. Next, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard, then season with salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Stir everything gently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully and start thickening the sauce.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses for Creamy Goodness

Once your sauce is simmering, stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. This is the heart of your Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe, so take a moment to appreciate that rich, luscious texture forming right before your eyes.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Tenderize

Place the broccoli florets into the cheese sauce, then cover the skillet and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes. The broccoli will become tender but maintain a pleasant bite and a vibrant green color. This not only keeps the dish visually appealing but also provides a fresh textural contrast to the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Final Simmer

Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and stir them well to coat every morsel in that delicious creamy cheesy sauce. Let everything simmer together gently for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the chicken is piping hot and fully infused with the flavors of the sauce. This last step harmonizes the ingredients into a perfect one-pan meal.

How to Serve Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley over the finished dish not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also a touch of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. If you want an extra zing, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes works wonderfully too.

Side Dishes

This dish is fantastic served over fluffy rice or al dente pasta to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent base. Alternatively, pair it with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining or an elevated weeknight dinner, serve this creamy chicken and broccoli mixture in individual deep plates, topped with a few toasted pine nuts for a contrasting crunch. You could also scoop the mixture into buttered puff pastry shells for a fancy appetizer twist that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so give it a gentle stir and a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, making it perfect to prep in advance. Freeze the cooled chicken with broccoli in creamy sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat on low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little cream or broth to bring it back to its luscious consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well and can be added directly to the sauce. Just keep an eye on cooking time as frozen broccoli may soften a bit quicker than fresh.

Is it necessary to use both cheddar and Parmesan cheese?

Using both cheeses gives this dish a richer depth of flavor and creaminess—cheddar melts smoothly and adds sharpness, while Parmesan brings a nutty bite. However, if you only have one type, feel free to use it exclusively.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce might be a little less thick and creamy but still delicious.

How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?

Serve the chicken and broccoli over cauliflower rice instead of pasta or traditional rice. This keeps the dish satisfying while reducing carbohydrates.

Is this dish freezer friendly after cooking?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. However, once thawed, the texture of the broccoli might be a bit softer, so it works best for reheated leftovers rather than freshly frozen meals.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how simple and delicious a Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe can be, there’s really no reason to wait. It’s a fantastic way to bring comfort food to your table with minimal effort but maximum heartiness and flavor. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you reach for again and again.

Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 62 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free

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Description

Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce is a comforting, one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. This family-friendly dinner is quick to prepare and perfect served over rice, pasta, or enjoyed on its own for a satisfying low-carb option.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasonings

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Prepare the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until they melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Cook broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, folding it into the sauce until fully coated. Simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through evenly.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley on top if desired, and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Notes

For a lower-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich and creamy.
Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its vibrant green color and slight crunch.
Using fresh garlic adds more flavor, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American