20-Minute Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli – Easy & Delicious

You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, totally exhausted, and just need something healthy but FAST? That’s exactly how my Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli was born—a lifesaver when I’m craving a real meal but don’t want to fuss. In 20 minutes flat, you get juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a pan that’s a breeze to clean. My kids even eat the broccoli here (shocking, I know). It’s become my go-to when life gets chaotic—proof that simple ingredients can taste amazing with just a little garlic powder and love.

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Ingredients for Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli

Here’s all you need for this simple, flavor-packed meal – I bet most are already in your kitchen. The beauty is in the basics:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (the good stuff)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (trust me, it’s better than fresh here)
• 1 tsp onion powder (my secret weapon)
• 1/2 tsp salt (I use kosher)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground if you’ve got it)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium keeps it balanced)

See? Nothing fancy – just honest ingredients that work magic together in one pan.

How to Make Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli

Okay, let’s get cooking. This comes together so fast you’ll think you missed a step – but nope, it’s really this simple. Just follow these foolproof steps:

1. Heat that oil right: Warm your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles. Too hot and the chicken will burn before cooking through – patience pays off here.
2. Season like you mean it: While the pan heats, pat your chicken dry (this helps it brown better) and sprinkle both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub it in with your fingers – this little massage makes all the difference.
3. Golden perfection: Add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes per side. No peeking. That beautiful crust forms when you leave it alone. Chicken’s done when it reaches 165°F inside (or juices run clear when poked).
4. Broccoli’s big moment: Push chicken to one side, add broccoli and broth all at once. Cover immediately – that steam is gold. Cook 5-7 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp (poke with a fork to check).

See? Twenty minutes from fridge to table, one pan to wash, and flavors that taste like you worked way harder than you did.

Tips for Perfect Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli

Three game-changers I’ve learned after making this weekly for years:

• Size matters: Cut chicken breasts in half horizontally if they’re thick – they’ll cook faster and more evenly.
• Don’t drown the broccoli: That 1/4 cup broth is plenty – too much liquid makes it soggy.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon if you have it – brightens everything up beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another chicken dinner – here’s why it’s my forever favorite:

• 20-minute miracle: Faster than takeout and way healthier
• One pan wonder: Less cooking, more living (and way fewer dishes)
• Nutrition powerhouse: Packed with lean protein and veggies
• Endlessly adaptable: Swap in whatever veggies you’ve got – Brussels sprouts work great too.

It’s the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights actually enjoyable.

Ingredient Substitutions for Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli

Life happens, and sometimes you gotta swap ingredients—no shame in that. Here are my tried-and-true subs that still taste amazing:

• Chicken thighs instead of breasts (juicier, but cook 2-3 minutes longer)
• Turkey cutlets work great too (just watch the cooking time—they dry out faster)
• Vegetable broth for chicken broth (perfect for vegetarians, though slightly less rich)
• Frozen broccoli in a pinch (no need to thaw—just add 1-2 extra minutes to cook time)
• Smoked paprika instead of garlic powder for a smoky twist (use half the amount—it’s potent)

The beauty? This recipe bends without breaking. Just taste as you go.

Serving Suggestions for Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli

This dish plays well with others. I love it over fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up those tasty pan juices. For crunch, add a simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette – the brightness cuts through the richness perfectly. My kids beg for garlic bread when I make this (who am I to say no?).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you. Store this in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days – the flavors actually get better overnight. For longer storage, freeze portions for 2 months (thaw in the fridge before reheating). My favorite trick? Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep everything juicy. Microwaving works too – just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Pro tip: The broccoli will soften more when reheated, but that’s part of its charm.

FAQs:

Nutritional Information

*Nutritional values are estimates per serving:*

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 8g (1.5g saturated)
• Carbs: 8g (3g fiber)
• Sugar: 2g

Try this recipe and share your results in the comments.

This Quick Skillet Chicken and Broccoli delivers a healthy, flavorful meal in minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something both nutritious and delicious. If you love fast skillet dinners, you’ll also enjoy our Maple Garlic Chicken Bites or our 5-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta. Show us your skillet creation by sharing it on our Facebook page Find more quick and easy recipes in our dinner collection.

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