For those seeking a delicious low-carb dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, this Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is a perfect choice. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish brings comfort food to a wholesome, carb-conscious level. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, providing a flavorful and nutritious meal with minimal fuss.
The recipe features cooked chopped chicken combined with crisp broccoli florets sautéed in butter and garlic. Heavy cream, mozzarella, and parmesan create a luscious, cheesy sauce that binds everything together. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, this skillet meal is rich without being heavy and is packed with protein and fiber. Plus, it’s gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: Perfect for anyone limiting carbs without sacrificing flavor.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find staples and cooked chicken for quick prep.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Rich sauce made with mozzarella and parmesan elevates the dish.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
- Versatile and Filling: Great as a weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days.
Ingredients
- Butter
- Broccoli, coarsely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy whipping cream
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Cooked chopped chicken
Variations
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the broccoli for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Use Cauliflower: Replace broccoli with cauliflower for a milder taste.
- Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook Broccoli and Garlic
In a large skillet, melt half the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in half the mozzarella and all the parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Season
Add the cooked chopped chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Cheese
Add the remaining butter and mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet and cook on low for 3–5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
Step 5: Serve
Give everything a final stir and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use cooked chicken to reduce cooking time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli to keep a nice crunch.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- Adjust cream quantity for a thicker or thinner sauce.
- Cover skillet when melting the cheese for an even melt.
How to Serve
- Serve as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
- Spoon over cauliflower rice for extra veggies.
- Garnish with freshly grated parmesan or chopped herbs.
- Enjoy with keto-friendly garlic bread or crackers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or water if sauce thickens too much.

FAQs
1. Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, but cook it fully before adding broccoli and sauce to avoid undercooked meat.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients.
3. Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?
Cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus work well as alternatives.
4. Can I use reduced-fat dairy?
Heavy cream and full-fat cheese provide the best flavor and texture, but lighter versions can be used with some difference in richness.
5. How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute butter with oil, and use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.
6. What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella for meltiness and parmesan for flavor balance the sauce perfectly.
7. Can I add spices?
Yes, Italian seasoning or paprika complement the flavors nicely.
8. Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it reheats well and maintains flavor.
9. How many servings does this recipe make?
About 4 servings.
10. Can I add more sauce?
Yes, increase cream and cheese quantities to make it saucier.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is a delicious, nutritious, and easy meal that perfectly fits a low-carb lifestyle. With its creamy cheese sauce and wholesome ingredients, it’s a comforting dish that can be whipped up quickly for any night of the week. Whether you’re managing carbs or simply want a satisfying dinner, this skillet recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
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Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for those watching their carbs. Tender chicken and fresh broccoli are cooked in a rich garlic butter cream sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan for a delicious, easy dinner.
Ingredients
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¼ cup (56.75 g) butter, divided
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12 ounces (340.2 g) broccoli, coarsely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
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1 ½ cups (168 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
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½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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3 cups (567 g) cooked chopped chicken (about 1 ¼ lbs)
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half the butter. Add the broccoli and sauté until tender-crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Remove broccoli and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet. Stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
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Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and cook until cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
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Use fresh or frozen broccoli; if frozen, thaw and drain excess water.
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For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
- This recipe pairs well with a side salad or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American