If you are on the hunt for a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that is as nourishing as it is delightful, look no further than this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe. Imagine tender chicken breasts seared to a perfect golden brown, nestled beside crisp-tender broccoli florets, all elevated by the bright zestiness of fresh lemon and the deep, savory kick of garlic and anchovies. This combination not only hits all the right taste notes but does so with an easy, fresh approach that makes weeknight dinners feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully. The simplicity of the list is part of what makes the recipe so approachable and rewarding.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide juicy, tender protein that absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Basic but necessary seasonings to enhance the natural taste of chicken and broccoli.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps create a lovely sear on the chicken.
- Unsalted butter: Contributes a creamy, luscious depth to the cooking fat at the start.
- Broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, it adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of green that brightens the plate.
- Garlic cloves: Their pungent aroma softens to a sweet savoriness that infuses the dish.
- Oil-packed anchovies: A secret umami boost that enriches the garlic sauce without overpowering.
- Lemon juice: This adds brightness and a refreshing tang that balances the savory notes perfectly.
- Parmesan: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the chicken develops a beautifully tasty crust. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet until the butter bubbles, then add the chicken with the smooth side down. Let it sear undisturbed for about 3 minutes to get that golden crust, then flip and cover to finish cooking gently.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Alongside
Tuck the broccoli florets and sliced stems right into the pan alongside the chicken. Cover the pan again and let everything cook together until the chicken is fully done and the broccoli reaches a tender-crisp texture. This method steams the broccoli in the flavorful chicken juices, making it succulent and vibrant.
Step 3: Make the Garlic and Anchovy Pan Sauce
Once your chicken and broccoli are cooked, remove them from the pan. Add the rest of the olive oil and toss in the chopped garlic and anchovies. As they sizzle, their flavors marry into a rich base. Splash in water and lemon juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those golden bits stuck to the bottom. Reduce briefly on the heat to create a bright, savory sauce.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Slice the chicken diagonally into elegant pieces and arrange them with the broccoli on your serving plate. Spoon the garlicky lemon sauce generously over the top. Finish with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan for a deliciously creamy, salty finish.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a burst of color and herbal freshness, perfect to brighten this dish further. A few lemon zest curls on top emphasize the citrus aspect and add visual appeal that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a bed of fluffy rice or a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every last bit of the luscious sauce. For a lighter touch, simple roasted baby potatoes or even a crisp green salad are fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the chicken breast whole for an elegant presentation or slicing it thinly and fanning it out over the broccoli. Layering the components in a shallow bowl and drizzling sauce in a zigzag pattern adds a modern touch. If you want a casual vibe, serve family-style straight from the skillet – it’s warm and welcoming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. The broccoli holds its texture best if eaten within this time frame.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, do so promptly after cooking. Place in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the broccoli might soften upon thawing, so it’s ideal to reheat gently to preserve as much texture as possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Avoid high heat that can dry out the chicken or make broccoli mushy. This way, you’ll keep the flavors bright and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli offers the best texture and flavor in this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe, you can use frozen broccoli in a pinch. Just be aware that frozen broccoli tends to soften more during cooking, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for anchovies if I don’t have any?
Anchovies add a unique salty umami, but if you don’t have them, a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can provide a similar depth of flavor. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the lemon and garlic.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe is not spicy. It focuses more on bright and savory flavors, but you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through and tender.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The meat should be opaque with no pinkness and juices running clear.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and bright, simple yet packed with unforgettable flavors. Give it a try the next time you want to lift a weeknight dinner to something special—you won’t regret it!
Print
Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts, bright broccoli florets, and a savory lemon-garlic anchovy sauce, topped off with Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables with a zesty, umami-packed sauce.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1 small head broccoli (about ¾ pound), cut into bite-sized florets, stem cut into ½-inch slices on the diagonal
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
Oils & Fats
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Other Ingredients
- 2 to 3 oil-packed anchovies (to taste), drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper and set aside to prepare for cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and butter in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, place the chicken breasts smooth side down into the pan. Partially cover the skillet to contain splatter and sear the chicken until golden, about 3 minutes. Flip the chicken and cover with the lid; reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Broccoli and Cook: Tuck the broccoli florets and stem slices into the pan around the chicken. Cover and continue cooking for 6 to 9 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is slightly tender. Remove the broccoli and chicken from the skillet, placing broccoli on a serving plate and chicken on a cutting board.
- Prepare the Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the chopped garlic and anchovies and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and sizzling. Pour in ¼ cup water and the lemon juice, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavor. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then turn off the heat.
- Serve: Slice the chicken diagonally and arrange on the plate with the broccoli. Spoon the pan sauce over the chicken and broccoli, then grate or shave Parmesan cheese generously on top before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and anchovies.
- Using oil-packed anchovies ensures a rich umami flavor without overpowering the dish.
- The broccoli can be substituted with other quick-cooking green vegetables such as asparagus or green beans.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes.
- Adjust lemon juice amount to taste depending on your preference for acidity.
