Name: Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner (30 minute meal)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles; 3 cups broccoli florets ((or more, if desired)); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion ((diced)); 2 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup ((see note)); ½ cup nonfat milk; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese ((use fresh, not from the green canister)); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; Salt ((to taste)); 2 cups cooked chickpeas ((see note))

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Sometimes, you just need a quick and satisfying meal that packs in the nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Enter the Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner, a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and hearty whole wheat egg noodles, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dinner that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this skillet meal is bound to become a weeknight favorite.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The whole wheat egg noodles provide a wholesome base, while the broccoli adds a pop of color and crunch. The creamy mushroom sauce ties everything together, making each bite comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup, making it a win-win for busy nights. You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.

What You’ll Need

8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles or any pasta
3 cups broccoli florets (or more, if desired)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (see note)
½ cup nonfat milk
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (use fresh, not from the green canister)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt and more pepper to taste
2 cups cooked chickpeas (see note)

Setup & Equipment

Large skillet: For cooking all the ingredients together.
Pot: To boil the pasta.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping the vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.

Cook Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner (30 minute meal) Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the broccoli into florets if they aren’t pre-cut. If using dried chickpeas, ensure they are cooked and ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring 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 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to become tender yet still crisp. If you prefer your broccoli softer, cover the skillet for a minute or two.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In the skillet, add the cream of mushroom soup and nonfat milk. Stir well to combine, ensuring no lumps remain. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, thickening slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chickpeas to the skillet. Stir in the shredded parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt to taste. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is heated through, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese or black pepper if desired.

Customize for Your Needs

Swap the chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
Use any pasta shape you prefer—penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta work well.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition.
For a spicier kick, toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Don’t Do This

Avoid overcooking the broccoli, as it can become mushy and lose its vibrant color. Additionally, don’t skip the fresh parmesan cheese; it makes a significant difference in flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. Lastly, resist the temptation to rush through the sautéing process; allowing the onions and garlic to develop their flavors is key to a delicious dish.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or water to help bring back the creamy consistency. If you want to prep ahead, you can chop the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance, making the assembly process even quicker!

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding it to the skillet, as excess moisture can affect the sauce’s consistency.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can make a simple homemade white sauce by combining equal parts butter, flour, and milk, then adding some sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, use a different cream soup, such as cream of chicken or a plant-based option.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of chickpeas or add other protein sources like lentils or edamame. You can also incorporate more veggies for added bulk and nutrition.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, place the skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Bring It Home

This Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. With its ease of preparation and flexibility in ingredients, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something wholesome and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy goodness and vibrant colors.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! In just 30 minutes, you’ll be savoring a delicious Chicken Broccoli Skillet Dinner that will make your taste buds sing and your heart happy. Enjoy your meal, and remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating memories around the table.