Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner (30 minute meal)

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will adore, look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty whole wheat egg noodles, all brought together in a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary masterpiece in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Here’s why you’ll love it:

– Speedy Cooking: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
– Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with broccoli and chicken, you’ll enjoy a meal that’s high in protein and vitamins.
– Comfort Food: The creamy mushroom sauce combined with noodles and cheese creates a cozy, comforting vibe.
– One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup is a bonus when everything is cooked in one skillet!

Ingredient Notes

Before you start cooking, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles or any pasta of your choice for a hearty base.
• 3 cups broccoli florets or more, if desired, for that vibrant green crunch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil to sauté the onions and garlic.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced, for sweetness and flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced, to add aromatic depth.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (see note for homemade option).
• ½ cup nonfat milk for creaminess without the extra calories.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese – use fresh, not from the green canister, for superior flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper to season the dish.
• Salt and more pepper to taste.
• 2 cups cooked chicken – rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver (see note).

Hardware & Gadgets

To make this Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner, you’ll need a few kitchen tools:

• Large skillet: A wide pan will help cook everything evenly.
• Pasta pot: For boiling the noodles to al dente perfection.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping onions and garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure delicious results.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients together.

From Start to Finish: Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner (30 minute meal)

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner:

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and nonfat milk, mixing well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked noodles and shredded chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Season

Sprinkle in the shredded parmesan cheese and ground black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve your Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner hot. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best things about this Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner is that it’s made with ingredients you might already have on hand. Here are a few staples you can keep in your pantry or fridge:

• Pasta: Whole wheat or any pasta you prefer.
• Canned cream of mushroom soup: A quick shortcut for creamy sauces.
• Frozen broccoli: If fresh isn’t available, frozen works just as well.
• Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time.
• Olive oil, garlic, and onion: Essential flavor builders for many dishes.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: You want it to be tender yet crisp, so keep an eye on it while cooking.
• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Season each layer of the dish to build flavor and avoid blandness.
• Don’t skip the cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds a rich flavor that’s essential to this dish.
• Don’t rush: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop the best flavors.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. The texture may change slightly upon reheating.
• Reheat: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Questions People Ask

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Simply dice fresh chicken and sauté it with the onions and garlic until fully cooked before adding the broccoli.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, cream, and chicken broth or use a similar cream soup alternative like cream of chicken or cream of celery.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it appealing to kids, and you can adjust the seasoning to suit their taste.

If you enjoyed this Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner, check out these other delicious recipes:

Wrap-Up

In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner that becomes a family favorite. This dish is not only quick and easy but also adaptable, allowing you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, every bite is a delightful experience. So grab your skillet and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it! Enjoy your delicious meal and the smiles that come with it.