Name: Creamy Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet That's Totally Satisfying
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Butter (can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option); 3 cloves Garlic (freshly minced); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (or lighter cream, note flavor change); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (can swap with cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (or pecorino Romano for a sharper taste); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 2 cups Broccoli (fresh or frozen (thaw and drain if frozen)); 2 cups Cooked Chopped Chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended for convenience)

As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting aroma of garlic wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy bistro in the heart of Tuscany. This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting fusion of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic butter sauce. Not only does this dish satisfy without the carbs, making it perfect for a healthy lifestyle, but it’s also a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights or during meal prep sessions. Plus, the delicious blend of cheeses gives it that homey vibe we all crave. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the world of flavors and textures waiting for you in this nourishing skillet!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at its core: This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is easily whipped up in one pan, making clean-up a breeze!

Flavorful Layers: The rich creamy garlic sauce, melted mozzarella, and parmesan create a comforting taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Health-Conscious Delight: This dish is gluten-free and low-carb, catering perfectly to those wanting to enjoy satisfying meals while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Endless Variability: Feel free to switch up the veggies or add spices to suit your palate! Whether you prefer more heat or additional herbs, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Quick & Nutritious: On busy nights, this skillet meal delivers a hearty dinner in under 30 minutes, keeping your weeknight routine stress-free.

For more easy and delicious inspiration, check out my guide on meal prep strategies that will save you time in the kitchen!

Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a delicious Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet:

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor; consider using olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste, creating a fragrant base for your dish.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Provides a luscious, creamy sauce; you can opt for a lighter cream if you wish but expect a slight flavor change.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – This chewy, melted cheese adds creaminess; feel free to swap in cheddar or Monterey Jack for variety.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Imparts savory depth; pecorino Romano makes a great sharper alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli – A great source of fiber and nutrients; feel free to use fresh or frozen (thaw and drain if frozen).

For the Protein

Cooked Chopped Chicken – The hearty base of the dish; rotisserie chicken offers convenience and flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Step 1: Cook Broccoli
In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the chopped broccoli, sautéing for about 5 minutes until it’s tender-crisp and bright green. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and golden before removing the broccoli mixture from the pan.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy whipping cream, carefully bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. As it heats, stir in half of the mozzarella cheese along with all the grated parmesan, mixing until melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Season your creamy sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chopped chicken and sautéed broccoli to the skillet, stirring them into the creamy mixture. Allow everything to simmer together for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the chicken is heated through and well-coated in the savory Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet sauce.

Step 4: Melt Cheese
Top your skillet evenly with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and deliciously gooey. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning while creating that lovely cheesy topping.

Step 5: Serve
Once your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is bubbling and cheesy, give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. Serve warm directly out of the skillet for a cozy meal, and enjoy this satisfying dish that’s both hearty and low in carbs!

Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe, making it your own by adding exciting twists or substitutes!

Mushroom Medley: Add sliced mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture; they bring an earthy richness that complements the dish beautifully.
Cauliflower Swap: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower for a milder taste; it creates a lovely creamy base while keeping it low-carb.
Spice It Up: Incorporate Italian seasoning or paprika for an added flavor punch, transforming the dish from comforting to zesty.
Protein Power: For convenience, use pre-cooked or shredded chicken; it saves time and still ensures a hearty meal.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese for a deliciously creamy alternative that suits vegan diets.
Zucchini Noodles: Serve the dish over zucchini noodles for a fun, low-carb twist that adds an extra layer of veggie goodness.
Cheddar Boost: Mix in sharp cheddar cheese for a tangy kick; it adds a new dimension of flavor that cheese lovers will adore.
Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat; it’s an easy way to spice things up according to your taste preference.

For more options to elevate your cooking, check out my guide on easy meal prep ideas that will keep your dinners fresh and exciting! Don’t forget to experiment with other cozy dishes, like my creamy garlic shrimp that pairs beautifully with this skillet meal!

What to Serve with Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Bring your meal together with delightful pairings that embrace the flavors of this comforting dish.

Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce, these soft, buttery sticks provide a satisfying texture contrast.
Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh veggies offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the skillet.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the cheesy low carb chicken broccoli skillet, enhancing the overall meal experience.

A side of Caesar salad can brighten your plate, while the crunch of croutons adds a lovely twist.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender and slightly charred, they bring a savory earthiness that beautifully counters the meal’s creaminess.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative to pasta, spiralized zucchini adds a fun twist and freshness to your dining experience.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc accentuates your meal’s richness with its crisp acidity, making each bite more enjoyable.

Enhance your dining adventure by blending these options with your skillet, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful table.

How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on low in a skillet or microwave to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the skillet meal in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s richness.

Expert Tips for Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet

Chicken Check: Always ensure your cooked chopped chicken is heated through before mixing it with the sauce to avoid any food safety issues.
Cream Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let the cream simmer longer to reduce, concentrating the flavors beautifully.
Veggie Versatility: Experiment with different vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition in your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet.
Cheese Choices: When substituting cheese, remember that mozzarella provides a perfect melt, but alternatives like gouda can add a delightful flavor twist.
Season Wisely: Adjust salt and pepper gradually; too much can overwhelm the delicate flavors of the broth and cheese combination.

Make Ahead Options

These Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillets are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prep the broccoli and the creamy sauce (sans cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Just sauté the broccoli and mix your garlic and sauce ingredients without the cheeses—this prevents the sauce from thickening too much. Store the broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate the sauce separately. When it’s time to finish the dish, simply reheat the sauce, add the chicken and broccoli, and stir in the cheese, cooking until melted. With this meal prep strategy, you’ll enjoy a delicious, low-carb meal with minimal effort, just as satisfying as if you’d cooked it fresh!

Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli provides the best texture and flavor, so I recommend using that whenever possible. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just fine; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in your skillet.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet over low heat, which helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. If you use a microwave, be sure to stir frequently for even heating.

Can I freeze the Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet?
You bet! To freeze, let the skillet meal cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

What if my sauce isn’t creamy enough?
No worries here! If your sauce turns out a bit thin, you can thicken it by letting it simmer a bit longer before adding the chicken and broccoli. Another trick is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce until it reaches your desired thickness.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a fantastic choice for those watching their carb intake or avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check your chicken and any added ingredients for gluten content if that’s a concern. For those with dairy allergies, you could explore using dairy-free alternatives, but be aware that it may change the dish’s texture and flavor.

Can this recipe be adjusted for a larger crowd?
Very much so! You can easily double or triple the recipe by using a larger skillet or dividing the ingredients into separate batches. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times slightly, as larger quantities may take a bit longer to heat through. The more the merrier when it comes to sharing delicious, homemade meals!