Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that feels like comfort food but is incredibly easy to make, Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce will absolutely hit the spot. Tender bites of chicken and crisp-tender broccoli are bathed in a velvety, cheese-packed sauce that clings to every morsel. This is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table and earns you rave reviews! Whether you serve it over rice, pasta, or just enjoy it as is, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want it in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays an important role, from adding richness and flavor to bringing gorgeous color and texture to the dish.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for fast, even cooking and juicy bites.
- Olive oil: Gives the chicken a golden sear and adds subtle flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the best in both chicken and sauce.
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the chicken.
- Fresh broccoli florets: For vibrant color, crunch, and a pop of freshness that balances the rich sauce.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a luscious base for the roux and infuses the sauce with buttery flavor.
- Minced garlic: Sautéed until aromatic, it makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that creamy, dreamy consistency.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce light and flavorful.
- Heavy cream: The secret to a sauce that’s truly rich and silky.
- Dijon mustard: Just a teaspoon brightens the sauce and makes the flavors sing.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings that signature cheesy pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty, nutty finish that takes the sauce over the top.
How to Make Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then add them to the hot pan. Let the chicken cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and golden brown on the edges. Once the chicken is cooked through, scoop it out and set it aside—you’ll be adding it back in later for maximum juiciness.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Roux
In that same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want all those tasty browned bits!) add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Next, sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the magic behind your ultra-creamy sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Cheesy Sauce
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Add the Dijon mustard and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Now comes the best part: stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Watch as the sauce transforms into a smooth, luscious, cheesy blanket.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets directly to the simmering sauce. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is just crisp-tender and vibrantly green. It should retain a bite, which pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken (and all its juices) to the skillet. Gently stir everything together so that each piece of chicken and broccoli is coated in that creamy cheesy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat through. That’s it—dinner is ready!
How to Serve Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top right before serving adds irresistible cheesy appeal. For a pop of color and freshness, try scattering some chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions over the finished dish.
Side Dishes
Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce is incredibly versatile. Spoon it over fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta for a super-satisfying meal. If you’re keeping things low carb, serve it with cauliflower rice or even just a big green salad on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Spoon the chicken and broccoli mixture into individual baking dishes, top with a bit more cheese, and pop them under the broiler for a bubbly, golden finish. Or, serve it family-style in a big, rustic skillet right at the table—let everyone dig in and enjoy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will stay creamy and the flavors actually meld together even more, making leftovers something to look forward to!
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir while reheating usually brings it right back together.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce seems a little thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce and stay extra moist and flavorful. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the recipe as written.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The sauce will still thicken beautifully, making this a great gluten-free dinner option.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Definitely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce. This keeps the sauce from getting watery and ensures the broccoli stays tender-crisp.
What’s the best way to make the sauce extra creamy?
For an even richer sauce, try stirring in a couple tablespoons of cream cheese when you add the cheddar and Parmesan. It melts right in and makes the sauce ultra-luxurious.
Can I prepare Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce ahead of time?
You can! Make the whole dish up to a day in advance, then reheat gently on the stove or in the oven. Just add a splash of cream if needed to keep the sauce silky.
Final Thoughts
Every time I make Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce, I’m reminded of how wonderfully comforting and satisfying a simple, homemade meal can be. It’s one of those recipes that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for cozy Sunday dinners. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Chicken with Broccoli in a Creamy Cheesy Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken and broccoli skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich cheesy sauce made with cheddar, Parmesan, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Perfect as a comforting gluten-free main course that pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add them to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the Dijon mustard, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3–5 minutes until they just become tender but still retain some crunch.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and broccoli are well coated with the creamy cheesy sauce.
- Final Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through completely before serving warm.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli; just thaw and drain well before adding to the skillet.
- Serve this dish over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream cheese or top with additional cheese and place under the broiler for a bubbly, golden finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
