Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a simple and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with bright lemon flavor and a good dose of garlic. The broccoli adds a fresh, green crunch that balances the meal perfectly. It’s a classic combo that feels light but still filling, making it great for any day of the week.
I love making this recipe because it comes together quickly, especially when I’m looking for something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The garlic and lemon make the chicken taste fresh and zesty, and the broccoli soaks up all those flavors nicely. Plus, it’s one of those meals where you can tuck into a big plate and feel good about it.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the lemony juices. It’s also fantastic as leftovers the next day, reheated for a quick lunch. If you like, you can sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley or parmesan on top for a bit of extra flavor—it’s a small touch that makes the dish even better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: These give the dish its protein and juicy base. If you prefer, you can swap with chicken thighs for a moister, more flavorful option. Just adjust cooking time since thighs take a little longer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that punchy, aromatic flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work too but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
Lemon: Lemon zest and juice add bright, fresh acidity that lifts the whole meal. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can do in a pinch, though fresh always tastes better.
Broccoli: This adds a healthy crunch and nice color. You can substitute with green beans, asparagus, or snap peas if you want some variety or when broccoli isn’t available.
Chicken broth or water: Chicken broth adds extra flavor to the pan sauce, but water works fine if you want to keep it lighter or dairy-free.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky since they dry out easily. Here are some tips for juicy, well-cooked chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Cook over medium-high heat to brown the outside quickly while keeping the inside tender.
- Don’t move the chicken too much in the pan; let it develop a crust before flipping.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one — 165°F (75°C) means it’s done but still juicy.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet to get a good sear and cook evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring onions and scraping up flavorful bits from the pan.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing garlic, lemon, and vegetables.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise amounts of broth, lemon juice, and zest.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or fish fillets for a seafood twist; adjust cook time accordingly.
- Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the pan along with lemon juice for extra depth.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for more aroma.
- Include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the broccoli for added texture and flavor.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced), plus 3 lemon slices for garnish
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making for a total time of roughly 30 minutes. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them over medium heat until they become soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and lemon zest, cooking for another minute until you can smell the fragrant aroma.
3. Add Broccoli and Finish the Dish:
Pour the chicken broth (or water) and fresh lemon juice into the skillet. Scrape the browned bits off the bottom to add flavor. Add the broccoli florets, cover the pan, and steam them for 4-5 minutes until they turn tender but still bright green. Return the chicken to the skillet and heat it through for about a minute.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Slice the chicken and serve it on a bed of the caramelized onions and cooked rice if you like. Add the steamed broccoli on the side. Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and placing lemon slices on top of the chicken for a fresh, zesty touch.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Broccoli with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Green beans, asparagus, or snap peas work well as alternatives. Just adjust the steaming time slightly based on the vegetable’s tenderness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the chicken juicy and the broccoli tender.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead, then store separately from the broccoli to keep everything fresh. Reheat and steam the broccoli just before serving.
