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Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 55 reviews

A comforting and hearty Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet featuring tender broccoli florets, creamy cheddar cheese, and seasoned chickpeas, topped with crispy buttery Ritz cracker crumbs. This easy stovetop meal combines vibrant veggies and plant-based protein in a rich, cheesy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 10 oz. broccoli, cut into 1” florets
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

Dairy & Butter

  • 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 4 oz. cheddar, shredded (about 1 cup)

Pantry Items

  • 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
  • 1 Tbsp. plus 1/2 cup water, divided
  • 10 Ritz crackers
  • 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 2 (14.5-oz.) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/8 tsp. baking soda

Instructions

  1. Steam Broccoli: In a medium heatproof bowl, season the broccoli florets with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Pour 1 tablespoon of water over the broccoli, then cover and microwave for 1 minute. Stir and continue microwaving in 30-second increments until the broccoli turns bright green and is fork-tender, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute more. Uncover and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cracker Topping: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Crush the Ritz crackers into the skillet, allowing a mix of larger and smaller crumbs. Cook while stirring constantly until the crackers are golden brown and emit a toasty aroma, about 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the toasted cracker crumbs to a small bowl and wipe out the skillet.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes tender and sweet, about 7 to 8 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add the all-purpose flour and continue cooking, stirring with a spatula, until a bubbling paste forms on the bottom of the skillet, approximately 1 minute.
  4. Create Cheesy Sauce: Switch to using a whisk and gradually whisk in the whole milk and remaining 1/2 cup water until fully incorporated. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, and cook until it thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the drained chickpeas and baking soda; cook, stirring, for about 1 minute until chickpeas are heated through. Gently fold in the steamed broccoli.
  5. Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt if necessary.
  6. Serve: Top the cheesy broccoli and chickpea mixture with the buttery toasted cracker crumbs and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute cheddar cheese with a sharp or mild variety based on preference.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers and flour alternatives.
  • Make sure to crush the crackers just before toasting for the best texture.
  • Microwaving broccoli preserves its vibrant color and texture better than boiling.
  • This dish can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: broccoli cheddar skillet, chickpea skillet, vegetarian skillet, cheesy broccoli recipe, easy stovetop dinner

Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/broccoli-cheddar-chickpea-skillet-recipe/