Cheesy Chicken And Broccoli Skillet

Pregătirea ingredientelor

Ingrediente

Mod de preparare

Pas cu pas

1. 1

   Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper.

   Aproximativ 1 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Patting the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning helps it brown better.

2. 2

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   Aproximativ 2 min.

3. 3

   Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook until golden on all sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

   Aproximativ 6 min.

   Nota bucătarului: The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.

4. 4

   Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter to the same skillet, and allow it to melt.

   Aproximativ 1 min.

5. 5

   Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

   Aproximativ 4 min.

6. 6

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   Aproximativ 1 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Be careful not to burn the garlic, which can make the dish taste bitter.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook, stirring constantly, for one minute to form a paste.

   Aproximativ 1 min.

   Nota bucătarului: This step cooks out the raw flour taste and is essential for a thick, smooth sauce.

8. 8

   Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth until the mixture is completely smooth.

   Aproximativ 2 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Pouring the liquid in gradually while whisking prevents lumps from forming.

9. 9

   Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.

   Aproximativ 2 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Using low heat to melt the cheese prevents the sauce from becoming grainy or separating.

10. 10

    Return the seared chicken and add the broccoli florets to the skillet.

    Aproximativ 1 min.

11. 11

    Stir to coat everything in the sauce, then cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender-crisp.

    Aproximativ 10 min.

    Nota bucătarului: Check the broccoli at 8 minutes; cook longer if you prefer it softer.

12. 12

    Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot, topped with optional cherry tomatoes.

    Aproximativ 1 min.