Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a bright and tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, and a punch of lemony garlic flavor. The chicken gets perfectly cooked and tender, soaking up a sauce that’s simple but full of zest and aroma. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor or fuss.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and feels like something special. The garlic and lemon mix is one of my favorite flavor combos, and it really makes the chicken pop. Plus, cooking the broccoli right in the pan keeps it crisp and just tender enough. It’s like the perfect balance of bright, fresh, and comforting all in one pan.
My favorite way to serve this is over a bed of fluffy rice or with some crusty bread to soak up all the tangy sauce. I often find myself going back for seconds because it’s so easy to eat and feels so satisfying. If you like simple meals that don’t skimp on taste, this lemon garlic chicken with broccoli is definitely one to keep on your weeknight rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts keeps this dish quick to cook and lean. If you want more flavor, swap for boneless thighs—they stay juicy and tender.
Olive Oil: This is great for searing the chicken and sautéing broccoli. You can use avocado or sunflower oil if you want a neutral taste or a higher smoke point.
Lemon & Garlic: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness, and garlic adds depth. If fresh lemon is not available, bottled lemon juice works but use less as it’s more concentrated.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is best for aroma, but dried thyme is a fine substitute. You can also try rosemary or oregano for a different herbal touch.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are perfect here for a crisp-tender bite. Frozen broccoli works too—just thaw before cooking to avoid excess water.
Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and helps steam the broccoli. You can use water instead, but broth enriches the dish more.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken breast perfectly can be tricky since it dries out easily. Here’s a simple way to get juicy, flavorful chicken every time:
- Pat your chicken dry before seasoning—this helps the seasoning stick and creates a nice crust.
- Heat your skillet well with oil before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
- Cook chicken without moving it for 5–6 minutes on the first side so it browns nicely.
- Flip, then add garlic and lemon slices to infuse flavor while finishing cooking for about 4–5 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one—165°F (74°C) is safe and keeps chicken juicy.
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking covered with foil, so juices redistribute and it stays moist.
Following these steps makes the chicken tender with a delicious lemon-garlic taste that complements the broccoli well.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a good non-stick or cast-iron pan. It’s perfect for searing the chicken and cooking the broccoli all in one.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – helps ensure chicken is cooked perfectly without overdoing it.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – useful for flipping the chicken and tossing the broccoli.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing lemon, mincing garlic, and chopping herbs.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use salmon or shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist that cooks quickly and adds richness.
- Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta on top before serving for extra savory flavor.
- Veggie boost: Add sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes along with broccoli for more colorful variety.
- Spice it up: Mix in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to give a bit of heat and smoky depth.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For The Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
Optional for Serving:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping, 15 minutes cooking the chicken and steaming the broccoli. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and half the thyme. This seasoning gives the chicken a bright, fresh flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook without moving them for 5–6 minutes, until they turn golden brown on one side.
Flip the chicken, add the minced garlic and lemon slices on top, and cook another 4–5 minutes more. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) inside, so it’s safe and juicy.
3. Steam the Broccoli:
Remove the chicken to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the broccoli florets. Stir to coat them in the pan drippings for extra flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth or water, cover the pan, and let the broccoli steam for 4–5 minutes until it’s bright green and just tender. Remove the lid and cook for another minute or two if you like a bit of browning.
4. Serve It Up:
Return the chicken to the skillet briefly to warm it through along with the broccoli and sauce. Plate the chicken topped with the cooked lemon slices and a sprinkle of thyme.
Serve with the tender broccoli and a side of cooked brown rice if you want a complete meal. Add fresh lemon slices for extra brightness and a lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy your delicious lemon garlic chicken with broccoli — a fresh, healthy, and simple dish that’s full of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to avoid excess moisture, which can interfere with getting a good sear.
Can I Substitute Broccoli with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts work well steamed in the pan. Just adjust the steaming time to make sure they stay tender-crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the chicken feels dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Double-check any broth labels to be sure!