Tender seasoned chicken and crisp broccoli served over rice and drizzled with a rich, silky homemade creamy garlic sauce. A healthy, high-protein dinner made in one pan.
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika into a paste. Rub evenly over both chicken breasts.
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Steam or blanch broccoli florets 3-4 minutes until bright green and just fork-tender. Remove from heat immediately.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant and light golden.
Whisk in flour and stir continuously for 1 minute until the mixture looks paste-like and smells slightly nutty.
Slowly pour in milk and chicken broth in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until fully melted and glossy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Divide cooked rice among 4 bowls. Top with broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce over everything and serve immediately.
Notes
Boneless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts – they are harder to overcook and stay juicier.
If the sauce thickens too much while assembling bowls, stir in a small splash of warm milk to loosen it.
Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat sauce on the stovetop and make sauce fresh if freezing components.