If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to absolutely love this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. It brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with fresh, vibrant broccoli all smothered in a velvety, luscious sauce that’s light but decadently creamy. This recipe is not only a comforting weeknight favorite but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests. Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that’s nourishing, satisfying, and filled with lovely textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each playing its own role in creating a beautifully balanced dish. From the juicy chicken that serves as the hearty base to the crisp broccoli that adds freshness and color, every component is chosen to amplify the creamy goodness you’ll enjoy.
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste: Provides simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that gives the chicken a lovely aromatic touch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used for cooking chicken and sautéing broccoli, adding subtle richness.
- 1 1/2 cup almond milk or any other milk: Keeps the sauce creamy yet light, perfectly comforting.
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or any other flour: The thickening agent that gives the sauce its smooth, clingy texture.
- 1 medium broccoli head, chopped (about 3 cups): Adds vibrant color, crunch, and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A burst of herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
- Lemon wedges, optional to serve: Adds a zesty pop that elevates and freshens every bite.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Rub the Chicken
Start by gently rubbing the chicken breasts with kosher salt, ground pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step sets the foundation, infusing the chicken with mouthwatering flavors that complement the creamy sauce perfectly. Take a moment to massage the seasoning in well—it’s worth it!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the almond milk and flour until smooth. This mixture is your secret to that irresistibly creamy texture without using heavy cream. Making sure there are no lumps here will ensure a silky sauce that hugs every inch of chicken and broccoli.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the seasoned chicken. Cook each side until golden-brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the next step. This resting phase is crucial for juicy results.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the chopped broccoli. Sauté for a few minutes until it turns bright green and starts becoming tender. Pour in the almond milk mixture and gently stir, letting the broccoli simmer and soak up the creamy sauce. This mingling of cooking liquids brings out a lovely harmony of flavors.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the golden chicken breasts to the pan with the creamy broccoli sauce. Let everything heat through together for another few minutes so the chicken can absorb some of that luscious sauce. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional zesty boost.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must here—it adds a bright, herbal contrast against the creamy richness. Lemon wedges on the side bring a fresh acidity that cuts through the dish beautifully. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes can also elevate your serving.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a light quinoa salad. Each side adds its own texture and flavor dimension without overshadowing the creamy star of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress visually, try plating the chicken sliced over a bed of the creamy broccoli sauce with a scattering of parsley and a lemon wedge artfully placed on the side. For casual dinners, serve straight from the skillet to keep things cozy and communal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken or separate a bit when cold, but this is easy to fix with gentle reheating and stirring.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe, transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be aware that broccoli texture might soften upon thawing, but the flavors remain delightful.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. To restore creaminess, add a splash of milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much. This way, every reheated bite remains satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli is classic here, feel free to swap in cauliflower, green beans, or zucchini for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times to keep veggies vibrant and tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free when you use almond milk or another plant-based milk, making it an excellent option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the components like cooking the chicken and chopping broccoli ahead, then combine and finish cooking just before serving to keep flavors fresh and textures ideal.
What type of flour works best for thickening the sauce?
Gluten-free flour works perfectly if you need a gluten-free option; otherwise, all-purpose flour or even cornstarch can do the job just fine for creating that smooth, creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the broccoli or a small dash of cayenne pepper with the seasonings on the chicken will introduce a nice spicy kick without overpowering the creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a homemade treasure—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or want a wholesome meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe delivers all the deliciousness you need. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your rotation too!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli recipe offers a delicious, comforting meal featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and paired with a creamy, lightly seasoned broccoli sauce made from almond milk and gluten-free flour. It’s a quick and healthy dish ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a wholesome family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups almond milk or any other milk
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or any other flour
- 1 medium broccoli head, chopped (about 3 cups)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, optional to serve
Instructions
- Rub the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt, ground pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together almond milk and gluten-free flour until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, which will help thicken the sauce during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté minced garlic if desired (not listed but optional), then pour in the almond milk mixture. Add chopped broccoli and cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli becomes tender and the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan with the creamy broccoli sauce. Heat everything together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any dairy or plant-based milk of your choice.
- Gluten-free flour can be replaced with all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
- For more flavor, add minced garlic when sautéing the broccoli.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
