Chicken-Broccoli Skillet(Low Calorie)
A healthy, low-calorie chicken and broccoli skillet with fresh tomatoes and subtle herbs, perfect for a quick, nutritious weeknight dinner for those watching calories.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen broccoli.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken strips and chopped onion quickly in hot margarine.
- Stir in the broccoli, lemon juice, dried thyme, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook uncovered for 6 minutes.
- Add the tomato wedges.
- Cover and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Serve with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and thyme for 30 minutes before cooking. If you're out of margarine, olive oil or butter can be used as a substitute. For added nutrition, you can incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly before adding to the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken-Broccoli Skillet pairs beautifully with rice, making it a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it over quinoa or a bed of mixed greens. A side of crusty bread can also complement the dish well. Consider pairing it with a refreshing salad for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Broccoli Skillet(Low Calorie) contains roughly 179 calories, with 16g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. At about 179 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to blanch it briefly to soften before adding it to the skillet. Fresh broccoli will give a more vibrant texture and flavor to the dish.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
If you want a different protein, try using turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option. Both can be seasoned similarly and will cook well with the other ingredients.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your Chicken-Broccoli Skillet, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. You can also experiment with jalapeños or spicy seasoning blends for extra heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).