Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Recipe

A savory dish featuring juicy chicken and tender broccoli, smothered in a rich garlic cream sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Quick and easy to prepare.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prep the Chicken Pieces
    Slice your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly. Grab your knife and, holding it parallel to your cutting board, gently slice from one side to the other as if you're opening a book. Aim for four thin slices per breast, which should give you plenty to work with.

  2. Step 2: Season the Chicken
    Sprinkle both sides of your chicken with a blend of salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a touch of chili powder if you're in the mood for a bit of heat. If you prefer something milder, paprika is a great substitute. This step lays the flavor foundation, so be generous yet balanced.

  3. Step 3: Coat with Flour
    Pour some flour into a shallow dish; it's time to give these chicken pieces a soft, floury coat. Press each piece lightly into the flour, flip, and repeat. Give them a gentle shake to let go of any excess, and set them aside on a plate. This will help give a little crispiness when cooked.

  4. Step 4: Sear the Chicken
    Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they achieve a lovely golden hue. Transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep them cozy and warm.

  5. Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Base
    Lower the heat to medium and toss in your butter. Let it melt completely before adding minced garlic. Stir consistently, scraping up any delightful browned bits clinging to the bottom of the skillet. Let your nose guide you; when the garlic is aromatic, you've done it right.

  6. Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce
    Pour in the half and half or cream, and sprinkle in that Parmesan cheese, stirring until it completely melts and blends into the sauce. Keep stirring to avoid any lumps. The sauce should be creamy, smooth, and positively irresistible.

  7. Step 7: Cook the Broccoli
    Introduce the broccoli into the skillet, letting it mingle with the creamy sauce. Cook it for about 5 minutes, or until it's tender yet still retaining a slight crunch. This keeps the color vibrant and the texture just right.

  8. Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce
    Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the broccoli and sauce. Spoon the sauce lovingly over the chicken pieces, ensuring they're coated in that rich, creamy goodness. Let everything simmer together for another few minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

  9. Step 9: Serve and Garnish
    Dish up your creamy creation, adding more grated Parmesan over the top if you're feeling extra indulgent. This final touch adds a delightful salty finish. Serve it while hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy!

Notes

Navigating the world of Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli can sometimes feel like a culinary adventure. One common hiccup is overcooking the chicken, leading to tough, dry bites. To keep things juicy, remember to sear each side just until golden and then let the oven finish the job.

Another pitfall is a too-thin sauce. It’s easy to rush, but patience is key. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens up—think honey’s consistency. This will ensure each piece of chicken is enveloped in a luscious glaze.

Broccoli sometimes gets neglected in the flurry of activity. Giving it just a quick steam keeps it vibrant and crisp. Nobody likes mushy greens, after all!

Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning is a rookie mistake. A little extra salt or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the dish from good to unforgettable. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll master this recipe with ease!

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