Chicken Breast with Broccoli: A Quick and Healthy Dinner Idea

A simple, wholesome dish like Chicken Breast with Broccoli brings a kind of comfort that never goes out of style. I still remember the first time I made this dish on a busy weeknight.

The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil and the vibrant green of the broccoli made me feel like I was cooking something truly special, without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is one of my go-to options when I need something quick, healthy, and packed with flavor.What I love most is how versatile it is.

You can keep it light and simple, or dress it up with cheese, rice, or even carrots for added color and texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Chicken Breast with Broccoli

Let’s start with the basics! You’ll only need a handful of ingredients, but each one adds a little something special to the dish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional add-ins:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup sliced carrots (for extra veggies)

You’ll also need a large skillet or frying pan and a lid for steaming the broccoli. Once you’ve got everything ready, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Chicken Breast with Broccoli

This recipe couldn’t be easier. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in no time.

Step 1: Season and cook the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you love a little kick, sprinkle on some paprika too.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!

Step 3: Steam the broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam for about 5 minutes. This will keep it tender-crisp and vibrant green.

Step 4: Combine and finish

Once the broccoli is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken and broccoli now.

Cover the skillet again for another 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts. If you’re serving this dish with rice or carrots, you can stir them in at this stage too.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Transfer everything to a serving platter or straight to your plates. Serve warm, and enjoy the mix of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and all those amazing flavors!

Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:

• Cheesy broccoli chicken: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor. You can even bake the dish in the oven for a few minutes to create a golden, bubbly top.
• Chicken and broccoli with rice: Turn this into a complete one-pan meal by mixing in cooked rice. The rice soaks up all the flavors from the chicken and garlic, making every bite satisfying.
• Add more veggies: Toss in sliced carrots, zucchini, or even snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it low-carb: Skip the cheese and substitute cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal that’s just as tasty.
• Meal prep idea: Divide leftovers into individual containers with rice or quinoa for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. That’s the beauty of simple dishes like this one, they’re endlessly adaptable!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Breast with Broccoli

How do I keep the chicken breast from drying out?

The key is not to overcook it. I recommend cooking the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which you can check with a meat thermometer.

If you don’t have one, slice into the thickest part, it should be white and juicy, not dry or rubbery.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet, and reduce the steaming time by a minute or two since it’s already partially cooked.

What’s the best way to season this dish?

I love using Italian seasoning and paprika for a simple yet flavorful combination. You can also try lemon pepper, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the cheese, and the dish will still be delicious. If you want a creamy element, try adding a splash of unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to the skillet at the end.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for 1–2 minutes or warm it in a skillet over low heat.

Try this one-pan meal tonight!

There you have it a quick, healthy, and versatile recipe for chicken breast with broccoli that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. I hope you’ll give it a try and see just how easy it is to whip up a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share your photos on Instagram and tag me at Wanda Recipes.

If you’re looking for more easy dinner ideas, check out my recipe for Creamy Chicken Enchiladas it’s another weeknight favorite!

Happy cooking, friends! 😊