Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying dish that fits well into low-carb lifestyles. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also delivers on flavor and nutrition. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this skillet meal is sure to impress without the fuss of multiple pots and pans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and essential vitamins from the chicken and broccoli, it’s a healthy option for any meal.
• Versatile: Easily customize this recipe by swapping in your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties.
• Flavorful Creamy Sauce: The rich sauce brings everything together with a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Suitable for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy leftovers throughout!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and can handle the high heat needed for sautéing ingredients effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat, making prep work quicker.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients while keeping your kitchen tidy.
• Measuring Cups: Helps in adding precise amounts of ingredients, ensuring consistent flavor in every preparation.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Sautéing

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced

For Vegetables

• 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets

For the Sauce

• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Then add garlic and onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, allowing onions to soften. Add broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until melted cheese coats everything nicely.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet!

How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully and adds extra nutrients.

Over Zoodles

• Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, provide a fresh and light base. They pair well with the rich flavors of the skillet dish without adding many carbs.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar complements the richness of the chicken broccoli skillet. Include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for added texture.

Inside Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the chicken mixture in large lettuce leaves. This creates a low-carb wrap that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Topped with Avocado

• Slices of ripe avocado add creaminess and healthy fats. Simply place them on top of the dish right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

To make your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet even better, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance flavor and texture significantly.
• Adjust seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences. Adding lemon zest can brighten the dish.
• Cook broccoli just right: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and crunch while absorbing flavors.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the broth and cream mixture to simmer longer can create an even richer sauce.
• Experiment with cheeses: Different types of cheese can change the flavor profile; try mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley or other herbs not only add color but also elevate the overall taste of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Pair this delightful skillet meal with sides that complement its flavors while keeping it low-carb. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A creamy, garlic-infused alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, perfect for soaking up sauce.

2. Sautéed Spinach
   Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element that balances the richness of the skillet dish.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken.

4. Zucchini Fritters
   These crispy fritters are made from shredded zucchini mixed with eggs and spices, providing a tasty side.

5. Crispy Radishes
   Roasting radishes transforms their flavor, making them a unique yet delicious accompaniment to your meal.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Fill bell peppers with seasoned cauliflower rice or quinoa for an attractive side that complements your main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet recipe turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can make it bland. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. Cook until just tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Adding cheese too early: Adding cheese at the wrong time can lead to clumping. Wait until the sauce is thickened before stirring in the cheese for a smooth finish.
• Using high heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the garlic and onions. Use medium heat to sauté gently for the best flavors.
• Neglecting to prep ingredients: Failing to prep your ingredients beforehand can slow you down. Chop vegetables and measure out liquids before starting to cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the skillet with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet recipe.

Can I use other vegetables in this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other low-carb veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What protein alternatives can I use?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile while still keeping it low carb.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients ahead and store them separately in the fridge for quick cooking later on.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to create your perfect meal. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!