I have been on a health journey that includes exploring tasty and low carb meals, and this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes. It’s simplistic yet packed with flavors, making it a hit with my family. Trust me, you’ll feel satisfied after eating it, and the best part is that it won’t leave you feeling guilty about carbs.
Why I Love This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
This recipe checks every box for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal. It combines chicken and broccoli, two nutritious ingredients, in one skillet. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is light on carbs. Plus, it takes only about 30 minutes to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients for Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
When I prepare this recipe, I make sure I have these essential ingredients on hand:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of pepper
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice, for drizzling
How to Make Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
To start, I cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and helps with the overall presentation. I find cutting the chicken into smaller pieces makes it easier for my kids to eat, too.
Next, in a separate pot, I bring water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. I typically wait for about 1-2 minutes until they turn a vibrant green. This step keeps the broccoli crisp and bright.
Cooking the Chicken
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This spice mix adds a lovely flavor that complements the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
It takes about 5-7 minutes for the chicken to cook through, turning lightly golden brown. I occasionally stir to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Adding the Garlic and Broccoli
Once the chicken is cooked, I slide the minced garlic into the skillet. The smell of garlic sizzling in the oil brings back memories of family dinners. I let it cook for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
After that, I gently fold in the blanched broccoli. This step allows the flavors to mingle and makes for a beautiful presentation. The bright green broccoli alongside the golden chicken is visually appealing.
Cheesy Option
If you love cheese like I do, this is where I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. It melts beautifully over the chicken and broccoli mixture, creating a creamy texture. If you decide to skip the cheese, that’s okay; the dish is still delicious without it.
Finishing Touches
Once everything is well combined, I let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat. This allows the cheese to melt completely and ensures the broccoli is heated through. A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and gives it a refreshing taste.
Serving Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
When it comes time to serve, I like to dish out this skillet meal into bowls. The warmth of the skillet keeps it inviting. If I’m feeling fancy, I sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh parsley on top as a garnish. This dish pairs well with a light salad or even cauliflower rice if you want an additional low-carb side.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, I always save them in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheating can be done easily in the microwave or on the stove. When I reheat it, I often add a touch of olive oil to keep things from drying out.
Variations of Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
One of the fun aspects of cooking is experimenting. Sometimes, I throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can even swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to mix things up. Different herbs and spices can also change the flavor dynamic, so feel free to get creative!
Cooking for Meal Prep
This meal is also fantastic for meal prep. I often make a larger batch to divide into containers for the week. This recipe is filling and keeps me on track with healthy eating, especially during busy work days when I need something quick and nutritious.
Low Carb Benefits
Eating low carb can help with weight management and boost energy levels. I have noticed that my cravings for sugary snacks have significantly reduced. Meals like this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet give me the fuel I need without the excess carbs hanging around.
This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe is a delicious, simple, and quick option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish can easily become a favorite. I hope you enjoy making and, more importantly, eating it as much as I do!