Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, and the onion powder.
Sear the chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
Add chicken in a single layer and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli to the empty skillet with a splash of water. Cover and steam 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Remove to the plate with the chicken.
Build the sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. When melted, stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
Stir, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer 3–4 minutes to slightly reduce.
Cheese time: Whisk in the Parmesan a little at a time until smooth and glossy. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Combine: Return chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat and warm through for 1–2 minutes. The sauce should cling to everything.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan.
Serve as-is or over zucchini noodles, shirataki, or spaghetti squash.