Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Prepare to be amazed by this one-pan wonder that delivers a symphony of flavors and textures in under 30 minutes! Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup; this dish is your new weeknight hero. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because it’s not only incredibly delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

While the exact origins of combining garlic, chicken, and broccoli in a skillet are somewhat modern, the individual components boast rich histories. Garlic, revered for its medicinal properties and pungent flavor, has been used for centuries across various cultures. Chicken, a staple protein source, has been domesticated for millennia. And broccoli, a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, has been enjoyed since Roman times. This Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet brings together these time-tested ingredients in a harmonious and convenient way.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, with tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luscious garlic sauce that coats every bite. People adore this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and satisfying. The one-pan cooking method minimizes cleanup, and the customizable nature of the dish allows you to adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Broccoli:
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Sauce:
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Optional Garnishes:
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Red pepper flakes

Preparing the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps to get a good sear on the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices and oil. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, for the flavors to meld together. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper searing. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover the plate with foil to keep the chicken warm while you prepare the broccoli.

Cooking the Broccoli

1. Prepare the Broccoli: While the chicken is marinating, wash and cut the broccoli into florets. Make sure the florets are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet you used to cook the chicken. Heat the oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss the broccoli to coat it with the oil and garlic.
4. Steam the Broccoli: Pour 1/4 cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is tender-crisp. The broccoli should be bright green and slightly softened, but still have a bit of a bite to it.
5. Add Lemon Juice: Remove the lid from the skillet and stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This will add a bright, fresh flavor to the broccoli.

Making the Sauce

1. Whisk the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (low sodium preferred), 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent lumps in the sauce.
2. Pour the Sauce into the Skillet: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the broccoli. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. The sauce should be glossy and coat the broccoli evenly.

Combining and Serving

1. Add the Chicken Back to the Skillet: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Toss everything together to coat the chicken with the sauce.
2. Heat Through: Heat the chicken and broccoli through for another 1-2 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
4. Serve: Serve the Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles. It’s also delicious on its own!

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, such as fresh garlic and broccoli, will result in a more flavorful dish.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. If you prefer a saltier sauce, add more soy sauce.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes to the chicken or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Variations:

• Garlic Shrimp Broccoli Skillet: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood option.
• Garlic Tofu Broccoli Skillet: Substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking.
• Garlic Beef Broccoli Skillet: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef for a heartier meal.
• Add Ginger: Add a teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
• Use Different Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions:

• Over Rice: Serve the Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
• Over Noodles: Serve the skillet over your favorite noodles, such as egg noodles, ramen noodles, or udon noodles.
• With Quinoa: Serve the skillet with cooked quinoa for a healthy and protein-packed meal.
• As a Lettuce Wrap: Serve the chicken and broccoli in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• With a Side Salad: Serve the skillet with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.

This Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet is a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a weeknight savior, a flavor explosion, and a testament to how delicious healthy eating can truly be. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try because it ticks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, packed with nutrients, and, most importantly, incredibly tasty. Forget complicated recipes with endless ingredients; this skillet wonder delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Think about it: tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and that irresistible garlic-infused sauce all coming together in one pan. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you completely satisfied. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! What’s not to love?

But the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You could also add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.
* Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy pasta dish.
* Enjoy it as is for a low-carb option.
* Top it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added richness.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and zesty finish.

Variations to Explore:

* Creamy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
* Cheesy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking and let it melt for a cheesy delight.
* Asian-Inspired Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of ginger to the sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
* Lemon Herb Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano for a bright and flavorful variation.

I’m confident that you’ll love this Garlic Chicken Broccoli Skillet as much as I do. It’s a recipe that I find myself making again and again, and I’m always excited to share it with others.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments with me – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking! I hope this becomes a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. Enjoy!