Name: Irresistible Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbspunsalted butter; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets; 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded; 3/4 cupbone broth ( can sub regular broth); 1+1/2 cupsshredded cheddar; Salt + pepper, to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes

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Why This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe Works

What You’ll Need

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Serving and Storage Tips

Suggestions for Customizing Your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Recipe

Conclusion

Looking for a delicious, quick, and healthy dinner option that fits your low carb lifestyle? This irresistible low carb chicken broccoli skillet recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite! With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this one-pan wonder combines tender chicken with fresh broccoli in a cheesy, savory sauce that’s sure to satisfy your hunger without the carb overload. Perfect for keto dieters and anyone wanting a nutritious meal, this low carb chicken broccoli dish delivers on both taste and simplicity. Let’s dive into how this skillet sensation comes together in just 30 minutes!

Why This Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe Works

This low carb chicken broccoli skillet recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s a complete meal in one pan, combining lean protein from the chicken with nutrient-rich broccoli and satisfying cheese. The combination creates the perfect macronutrient profile for those following a low carb or ketogenic diet.

The recipe leverages the convenience of rotisserie chicken, which not only saves time but also adds wonderful flavor that would take hours to develop from scratch. The bone broth creates a rich foundation that helps steam the broccoli while infusing it with savory goodness.

From a scientific standpoint, this dish works because cheese, chicken, and broccoli naturally complement each other while maintaining a low carb count. Broccoli is one of the best low carb vegetables, offering fiber that helps you feel full while providing essential vitamins and minerals. When paired with protein-rich chicken and satisfying fats from cheese and butter, you get a perfectly balanced keto-friendly meal that keeps blood sugar stable and hunger at bay.

Unlike many other chicken and broccoli recipes that rely on flour-based thickeners or breadcrumbs, this version stays true to low carb principles while delivering maximum flavor and a perfectly creamy texture.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
Uses just one pan for quick and easy cleanup
Perfect for keto and low carb diets with only 6g net carbs per serving
Incredibly versatile – easy to customize with your favorite low carb vegetables
Makes fantastic leftovers for meal prep and lunch the next day
Uses rotisserie chicken for convenience while maximizing flavor

Beyond these benefits, this low carb chicken broccoli skillet delivers a comforting meal that feels indulgent without the carb crash afterward. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and melty cheese creates a dish that even carb-lovers will crave. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your comfort food cravings while staying on track with your health goals.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
3/4 cup bone broth (can substitute regular broth)
1+1/2 cups shredded cheddar
Salt + pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes

Each ingredient in this low carb chicken broccoli skillet plays an important role. The butter provides a rich base for sautéing while adding healthy fats. Bone broth brings depth and nutrition that regular broths can’t match. The combination of onion and garlic creates an aromatic foundation that elevates the entire dish. And of course, the star players—chicken, broccoli, and cheese—deliver protein, fiber, and satisfying creaminess while keeping carbs to a minimum.

Tools

Large skillet with high sides and a lid
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

The most important tool for this recipe is a good-quality skillet with a tight-fitting lid. The lid helps trap steam to cook the broccoli properly without losing moisture, resulting in perfectly tender florets that maintain their vibrant green color.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Prepare your workspace: Before beginning, ensure all ingredients are ready. Shred the rotisserie chicken, cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
Start the base: Heat a large skillet with high sides and a lid over medium heat. Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Add vegetables and protein: Stir in the broccoli florets and 3/4 cup of bone broth, then incorporate the shredded rotisserie chicken. Season well with salt and pepper (and red pepper flakes if desired for some heat).
Steam cook: Slightly reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan with the lid. Allow everything to cook for 10-12 minutes. The broccoli should become tender but still maintain some firmness.
Add cheese: Remove the lid and check that the broccoli is cooked to your preference. Sprinkle the 1+1/2 cups of shredded cheddar evenly across the top of the mixture. Return the lid until the cheese is completely melted, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your low carb chicken broccoli skillet is ready to serve. Divide into four portions and enjoy immediately!

The beauty of this method is how it allows the flavors to meld together while maintaining the integrity of each ingredient. The broccoli absorbs the savory bone broth while still keeping its nutritional value and pleasant texture. The already-cooked rotisserie chicken warms through without becoming dry or overcooked.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

This low carb chicken broccoli skillet is a complete meal on its own, but there are several ways to elevate your dining experience:

Presentation: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal, or portion onto individual plates with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color contrast.
Accompaniments: For those not strictly following keto, a side of cauliflower rice makes an excellent low carb companion. For family members who aren’t low carb, you can offer a side of regular rice or crusty bread.
Garnishes: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds brightness, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brings richness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or pork rinds can add delightful crunch.
Make it spicy: Serve with a bottle of hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy more heat than the optional red pepper flakes provide.

Storage: This low carb chicken broccoli dish stores beautifully. Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious!

Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of bone broth or water to restore moisture. Microwave reheating works too – cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Freezing: While you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month, be aware that the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion into individual containers for easier reheating later.

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You Must Know

Overcooking the broccoli will result in mushy florets that lose their vibrant color and nutritional value
Using pre-shredded cheese can introduce unnecessary carbs through anti-caking agents – shred your own for best results
Skipping the covered cooking step will prevent the broccoli from steaming properly
Not allowing the cheese to fully melt before serving prevents the dish from reaching its full creamy potential

Another common mistake is not seasoning adequately. When cooking low carb meals, proper seasoning becomes even more important as we’re not relying on carbs for satisfaction. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the flavors in this dish.

Also, rushing the onion and garlic sautéing stage is a missed opportunity. Those 4 minutes of cooking build a flavor foundation for the entire dish. Patience here pays off with a deeper, more complex taste in your final low carb chicken broccoli creation.

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Chef's Helpful Tips

Cut broccoli florets to uniform sizes to ensure even cooking throughout the dish
For extra flavor, use a rotisserie chicken with herbs or lemon pepper seasoning
Temper the shredded cheese at room temperature for 10 minutes for smoother melting
For a thicker sauce, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum over the mixture before adding cheese
Bone broth adds significantly more flavor than regular broth – it’s worth seeking out

Another professional technique is to “bloom” your spices. If you’re adding red pepper flakes or other dried herbs, add them to the butter along with the onions and garlic. The heat helps release their flavors more effectively than adding them later in the cooking process.

For a restaurant-quality finish, consider investing in a finishing salt like Maldon or fleur de sel to sprinkle just before serving. These large crystal salts add texture and bursts of flavor that elevate your low carb chicken broccoli skillet to new heights.

Suggestions for Customizing Your Low Carb Chicken Broccoli Recipe

One of the best things about this low carb chicken broccoli skillet is its versatility. Here are some delicious variations while keeping it low carb:

Cheese variations: Try different cheese combinations such as mozzarella for stretch, Gruyère for nuttiness, or pepper jack for heat.
Protein swaps: Substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked ground turkey, beef, or even smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable additions: Add cauliflower florets alongside the broccoli, or mix in some spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Creamy variation: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of cream cheese or 1/4 cup heavy cream before adding the cheddar for an extra creamy texture.
Mediterranean twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese instead of cheddar, plus a sprinkle of oregano.
Spice it up: For heat lovers, add diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce during cooking.
Bacon lover’s version: Cook 4-6 strips of bacon before starting the recipe, set aside, then use the bacon fat instead of butter. Crumble the bacon over the top with the cheese.

These customizations allow you to enjoy this low carb chicken broccoli skillet multiple times without getting bored. Just be mindful of any additions that might increase the carb count if you’re strictly tracking macros.

For inspiration with similar flavors but different preparations, check out this delicious Keto Chicken and Broccoli Casserole Recipe from Allrecipes.

FAQs:

How many carbs are in this low carb chicken broccoli skillet?

This recipe contains approximately 6g of net carbs per serving, making it perfect for those following a keto or low carb diet. The primary sources of carbs are the broccoli, onion, and garlic, all of which provide beneficial nutrients and fiber.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but the texture may be slightly different. If using frozen, reduce the cooking time by about 3-4 minutes since frozen broccoli is partially cooked. Also, you may want to reduce the broth slightly as frozen broccoli will release more water.

I don't have rotisserie chicken. What can I substitute?

You can use any pre-cooked chicken such as leftover grilled chicken breasts, poached chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. If starting with raw chicken, dice 1-1.5 pounds of chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces and cook them in the skillet before adding the onions and garlic.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This low carb chicken broccoli skillet is excellent for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be portioned into individual containers. The flavors often develop more fully overnight, making leftovers particularly delicious.

Can I make this dairy-free while keeping it low carb?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting the butter with olive oil or avocado oil, and replacing the cheese with nutritional yeast for flavor. You could also use a dairy-free cheese alternative, but check the label to ensure it’s low in carbs as some plant-based cheeses contain added starches.

What can I serve with this dish to make it more filling while keeping it low carb?

Great low carb sides include cauliflower rice, sautéed greens like spinach or kale, a simple salad with olive oil dressing, or roasted low carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For family members not following a low carb diet, you can offer regular rice or crusty bread on the side.

For more low carb dinner inspiration, check out this Keto Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Bake that incorporates similar flavors in a different format.

Conclusion

This irresistible low carb chicken broccoli skillet recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, this one-pan wonder delivers a nutritious meal that fits seamlessly into a low carb or keto lifestyle. The combination of tender rotisserie chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and melty cheese creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent while keeping carbs in check.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and simplicity. Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without the fuss. Plus, the endless customization options mean you can adapt it to your family’s preferences while maintaining its low carb integrity.

Whether you’re a seasoned low carb cook or just beginning to explore healthier eating habits, this low carb chicken broccoli skillet deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. It’s proof that nutritious, low carb meals can be delicious enough to crave and simple enough to make regularly.

Ready to explore more delicious low carb creations? Check out our 5-Ingredient Easy Keto Cloud Cake Recipe for a perfect low carb dessert option. Or if you’re looking for more dinner inspiration, our 10-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta can be adapted to fit a low carb lifestyle by substituting zucchini noodles for regular pasta.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious low carb chicken broccoli skillet!

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