Name: 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing and adding healthy fats.); 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Cut into 1" pieces for quick cooking.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (To enhance the flavor profile.); Salt (To taste, elevating the overall dish.); Pepper (To taste, adding a slight kick.); 4 cloves garlic (Minced for aromatic depth.); 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (Drained and chopped for a sweet-tangy flavor.); 2 cups broccoli florets (Chopped into small pieces for quick cooking.); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (For added moisture and flavor.); 1 cup heavy cream (To create a rich and creamy sauce.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (For a melty, cheesy finish.)

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There’s nothing quite like a quick and delicious dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Meet the 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli—a dish that combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only fast but also packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll find yourself making this dish over and over again.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is specially designed for those who crave a wholesome meal without the fuss. The chicken thighs cook quickly and stay juicy, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch and nutrition. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a unique depth of flavor, and the creamy sauce envelops everything beautifully, making every bite irresistible. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

Gather These Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding healthy fats.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cut into 1″ pieces for quick cooking.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: To enhance the flavor profile.
Salt: To taste, elevating the overall dish.
Pepper: To taste, adding a slight kick.
4 cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic depth.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Drained and chopped for a sweet-tangy flavor.
2 cups broccoli florets: Chopped into small pieces for quick cooking.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: For added moisture and flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: To create a rich and creamy sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For a melty, cheesy finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Large skillet: To cook everything in one pan.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping the chicken and veggies.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir and serve the dish.

The Method for 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts and fully incorporates into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli immediately. It pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, or you can enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

Smart Substitutions

Chicken thighs: Feel free to substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version.
Broccoli: Swap for other veggies like asparagus or green beans if desired.
Cheddar cheese: Try mozzarella or parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Steer Clear of These

When making 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli, avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Additionally, steer clear of using pre-cooked chicken, which may not absorb the flavors of the sauce as well. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving that vibrant and rich taste!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for leftovers! Store any uneaten 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. It’s also great for meal prep—portion it out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to add it to the skillet a bit earlier, as it may take longer to cook through. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

What should I serve with this dish?

The 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with rice, quinoa, or pasta. You can also serve it over a bed of leafy greens for a lighter option.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese for the topping.

How can I add more spice to this dish?

If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet when cooking. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

See You at the Table

In just 15 minutes, you have a delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors in this 15 Minute Chicken Broccoli is simply unbeatable, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy textures, the savory notes of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, and the satisfaction of a meal that comes together so quickly. You’ll be back in the kitchen whipping this up again before you know it!