One Skillet Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Dinner Recipe | Easy Cast Iron Skillet Meal
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep your grill or stovetop. If using a grill, preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium heat. Place a large, deep skillet with a lid on the grill grates or stovetop to heat up.
- Season and brown the chicken. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels , then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in the hot skillet. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through . Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside .
- Sauté the aromatics. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened . Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant .
- Cook the broccoli. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Cover and cook for 3–5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp .
- Combine and melt the cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let it sit for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey .
- Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot directly from the skillet! Enjoy as is, or pair with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread .
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Skillet
- Get that smoky flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, cook this skillet on a charcoal grill. The smoke adds a depth you can’t get from a stovetop. If using a gas grill, a smoker box with wood chips can create a similar effect.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese from a block ensures a creamy, perfectly melted texture .
- Cut broccoli into small florets: Cutting the broccoli into bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, giving you that perfect tender-crisp texture .
- Pat the chicken dry: Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps it get a beautiful golden-brown crust instead of steaming .
- Customize the veggies: This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans .
Delicious Variations
- Add rice or pasta: For a heartier meal, stir in 1½ cups of instant white rice with the broth in step 4 , or serve the cheesy chicken and broccoli over cooked pasta .
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter sauce .
- Make it a one-pan mac: Turn this into a creamy chicken broccoli mac by adding 2½ cups of uncooked elbow pasta and 3½ cups of chicken broth to the skillet along with the broccoli .
- Add a creamy sauce: For a saucier dish, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half with the cheese for an extra velvety texture .
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store leftovers: Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer the mixture to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days .
To reheat: The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and stir frequently until hot . You can also microwave individual portions in a covered dish.
Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the broccoli may soften slightly upon thawing .
—Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe on a gas grill or charcoal grill?
Absolutely! This one-pan dish is perfect for RV grilling. A gas grill offers convenience and precise temperature control, while a charcoal grill adds that incredible smoky flavor that enhances the cheesy sauce. Just use a cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet with a lid directly on the grill grates.
What’s the best cheese for this dish?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice because it melts smoothly and adds bold flavor . You can also use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or try mozzarella for a milder, stretchier texture .
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it during the last 2 minutes of cooking to ensure it stays crisp and bright green . Thaw and drain it first to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
How can I add smoky flavor without a charcoal grill?
Even without a charcoal grill, you can add smoky depth to your dish. Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning blend, or use a pinch of smoked sea salt as a finishing touch.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice, roasted potatoes, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce .
