Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a simple and fresh dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, bright lemon, and garlicky goodness all in one pan. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with crisp-tender broccoli, making it a balanced meal full of flavor and color.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it’s quick to prepare and doesn’t need a lot of fancy ingredients. The lemon and garlic really wake up the chicken’s flavor, and the broccoli cooks just right alongside it. Whenever I make this, the kitchen smells amazing, and it always makes me feel like I’m eating something healthy and satisfying at the same time.
My favorite way to serve this is straight from the pan, maybe with a side of rice or some crusty bread to soak up all the lemony juices. It’s also a favorite with family and friends since it’s bright, fresh, and not too heavy—perfect for any season. Plus, clean-up is usually a breeze, which definitely scores extra points in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you want juicier meat, try bone-in thighs instead—they stay tender and juicy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used, but fresh really makes a difference here.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances richness. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch but fresh is always best.
Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli florets for a crisp texture. Frozen broccoli can be used but may become softer, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps salt in your control. Vegetable broth can be swapped for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Can I Get Tender, Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky because they dry out easily. Here’s how to keep them moist and flavorful:
- Pat chicken dry and season well for better browning.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a nice crust without overcooking inside.
- Don’t move the chicken around too much when searing; let a crust form.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should hit 165°F (75°C).
- Let chicken rest a few minutes off heat to let juices redistribute before slicing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a sturdy, non-stick or cast-iron skillet for even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keeps your ingredients accurate, especially for lemon juice and broth.
- Tongs or a spatula – helpful for turning the chicken and tossing the broccoli without breaking things apart.
- Knife and cutting board – essential for chopping garlic and slicing lemon and broccoli.
- Optional: Meat thermometer – ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch protein: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist on the flavors.
- Add herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro work great as garnish and add fresh flavor.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne for some heat.
- Cheese: Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta for extra richness and saltiness.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced plus 4 slices for garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, making it an easy, 30-35 minute meal from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will add great flavor and a little color when you cook them.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, take the chicken out and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the garlic aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth and the lemon juice, stirring to scrape the bottom of the pan and pick up any tasty bits. Stir in the butter and thyme and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets into the skillet with the sauce. Stir them so they get coated well, then cover the pan. Let the broccoli cook for 4 to 5 minutes until it turns bright green and is just tender but still crisp.
5. Finish and Serve
Put the chicken breasts back into the pan with the broccoli. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let everything heat through for another 2 minutes. Serve your chicken and broccoli hot, garnished with lemon slices. If you like, serve it over cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture.
How Do 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 until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Broccoli with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts work well. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure the vegetables become tender but still crisp.
Is It Okay to Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is best for bright, fresh flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Taste the sauce and adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.