Name: Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 48 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Chicken Marinade:; 4 chicken breasts; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tsp Fresh Parsley; lemon slices; For Broccoli:; 1¼ lb broccoli crowns; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 garlic clove; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese

This delightful lemon chicken with roasted broccoli is a refreshing and vibrant meal, perfect for any weeknight dinner. The tangy lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, while the roasted broccoli adds a wonderful crunch and earthy taste. It's a simple yet elegant dish that comes together effortlessly.

Photos of Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples. However, fresh Italian seasoning and fresh parsley might not be as commonly found in every home. If you’re heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick up these fresh herbs to ensure the fullest flavor for your dish.

Ingredients For Lemon Chicken With Roasted Broccoli

Chicken breasts: These are the main protein in the dish, providing a tender and juicy bite.

Olive oil: Used in both the marinade and for roasting, it adds a rich flavor and helps with cooking.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy taste that brightens up the chicken.

Garlic cloves: Adds a pungent, savory flavor to the marinade and broccoli.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and depth to the marinade.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note when sprinkled on the chicken.

Lemon slices: Used as a garnish to enhance presentation and add a hint of lemon aroma.

Broccoli crowns: The vegetable component that, when roasted, provides a deliciously tender and slightly crispy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish to the roasted broccoli.

One reader, Andi Blount says:

This lemon chicken with roasted broccoli recipe is a game-changer! The chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the broccoli is perfectly roasted and cheesy. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Highly recommend!

Andi Blount

Cooking Techniques for Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe

How to pound chicken breasts: Use the flat side of a meat mallet to even out the thickness of the chicken breasts by gently pounding the thicker portions. How to make a marinade: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, seal the bag while removing excess air, and rub the marinade around the chicken. How to preheat an oven: Set the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before cooking. How to prepare a baking sheet: Spray an 18 x 13-inch rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. How to roast vegetables: Toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and salt, then spread it in an even layer on a baking sheet. How to check chicken temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure each chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How To Make Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli

Serve up some tangy lemon chicken for dinner tonight! It comes with parmesan roasted broccoli, and baked all in one sheet pan.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 18 minutes

Marinating: 15 minutes

Total: 48 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken Marinade:

4chicken breastsboneless, skinless
3tbspolive oil
3tbspfresh lemon juice
2garlic clovesminced
1tspItalian seasoning
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2tspfresh parsleyminced, for garnish, optional
lemon slicesfor garnish, optional

For Broccoli:

1¼lbbroccoli crownschopped into bite sized florets
2tbspolive oil
1garlic cloveminced
2tbspparmesan cheesegrated or fine powdered

Instructions

Chicken Marinade:

Pound thicker portions of chicken breast with the flat side of a meat mallet to even out thickness.
Add chicken to a gallon size resealable gallon bag.
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning and season with 1 ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¾ teaspoon of pepper.
Pour marinade over chicken, then seal the bag while removing excess air.
Rub marinade around the chicken after sealing the bag.
Transfer to refrigerator and let rest at least 15 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Roasting Broccoli and Chicken:

During those 15 minutes, preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Spray an 18 x 13-inch rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Place broccoli on baking sheet, toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the garlic, and salt.
Spread into an even layer covering about ⅔ of the baking sheet.
Remove the chicken from the marinade bag then transfer to the remaining space on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast in the oven for 16 to 22 minutes until each chicken breast registers 165 degrees F in center and the broccoli is tender and nicely browned in spots.
Remove from oven and sprinkle broccoli with parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle chicken with parsley, and garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
Season chicken with more salt to taste, serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 514.45kcal
Fat: 34.68g
Saturated Fat: 7.79g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.28g
Carbohydrates: 10.03g
Fiber: 3.39g
Sugar: 2.29g
Protein: 41.46g
Cholesterol: 114.52mg
Sodium: 754.51mg
Calcium: 142.61mg
Potassium: 784.89mg
Iron: 2.74mg
Vitamin A: 89.90µg
Vitamin C: 107.24mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli

To ensure your chicken breasts cook evenly and stay juicy, make sure to pound the thicker portions with the flat side of a meat mallet. This not only helps in even cooking but also allows the marinade to penetrate more effectively, enhancing the flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken marinade the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-cut broccoli: Buy pre-cut broccoli crowns or cut them ahead of time to reduce prep work.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to save the time it takes to peel and chop fresh cloves.

Sheet pan prep: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and faster transfer of ingredients.

Multi-task: While the chicken marinates, preheat the oven and prepare the broccoli to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative for chicken in this recipe.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for olive oil in marinades and roasting.
Fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can complement the chicken and broccoli well.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can still enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence includes a blend of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano, which can provide a similar aromatic profile to Italian seasoning.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness to the dish.
Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.
Fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, bright flavor that can be a good alternative to parsley in this recipe.
Lemon slices - Substitute with orange slices: Orange slices can provide a different but pleasant citrus flavor that pairs well with chicken.
Broccoli crowns - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be roasted in the same way as broccoli.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese that can provide a similar flavor profile to Parmesan.

Presentation Tips for Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the chicken breasts into elegant, thin medallions to create a refined presentation. This allows for a more delicate and sophisticated plating.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Create height: Stack the roasted broccoli in a small mound to add height and visual interest to the plate. Place the chicken medallions leaning against the broccoli for a cohesive look.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle the remaining lemon marinade over the chicken and broccoli to enhance the flavors and add a glossy finish.
Use a clean, white plate: A pristine white plate will make the vibrant colors of the lemon chicken and roasted broccoli stand out, giving a professional and polished appearance.
Add texture: Sprinkle a small amount of parmesan cheese over the broccoli just before serving to add a touch of texture and umami flavor.
Balance the elements: Ensure that each plate has an equal amount of chicken and broccoli, creating a balanced and harmonious presentation.
Finish with a touch of elegance: Add a final garnish of microgreens or edible flowers to elevate the dish and give it a Michelin-star-worthy finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

Meat mallet: Used to pound the thicker portions of the chicken breasts to even out their thickness.
Gallon size resealable bag: Used to marinate the chicken by sealing it with the marinade and removing excess air.
Small bowl: Used to whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
Whisk: Used to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Refrigerator: Used to let the chicken rest and marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Oven: Preheated to 425 degrees F to roast the chicken and broccoli.
18 x 13-inch rimmed baking sheet: Used to place the broccoli and chicken for roasting.
Non-stick cooking spray: Used to spray the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic cloves for both the marinade and the broccoli.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the broccoli crowns and parmesan cheese.
Instant-read thermometer: Used to check that the chicken breasts have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Tongs: Used to handle the chicken and broccoli on the baking sheet.
Cutting board: Used to prepare the garlic and lemon slices.
Knife: Used to slice the lemon and chop the parsley.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

To store leftover lemon chicken and roasted broccoli, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, place the chicken and broccoli on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the texture of the chicken and broccoli may change slightly.
For longer storage, you can freeze the lemon chicken and roasted broccoli separately. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Do the same with the broccoli in a separate container or bag.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken and broccoli overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat frozen lemon chicken, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
To reheat frozen roasted broccoli, place it on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the texture may change slightly.

How To Reheat Leftover Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lemon chicken and roasted broccoli in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out during the reheating process.
Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and broccoli are heated through. The exact time will depend on the amount of leftovers and the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Alternatively, you can reheat the lemon chicken and roasted broccoli in a microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to create steam and keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken and broccoli are heated through. Be sure to stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftovers, consider slicing the lemon chicken and tossing it with the roasted broccoli in a salad. Add some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette for a delicious and healthy meal.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the lemon chicken and roasted broccoli in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help steam the leftovers and prevent them from sticking. Cover the skillet and let the leftovers heat through for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If you have a lot of leftover lemon chicken, consider shredding it and using it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. The bright, citrusy flavor of the chicken will pair well with your favorite Mexican-inspired toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.

Interesting Facts About Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

A fun fact about this lemon chicken with roasted broccoli recipe is that marinating the chicken in lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The acidity in the lemon juice breaks down the proteins, making the chicken more tender and juicy.

Is Making Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Cost-Effective?

This lemon chicken with roasted broccoli recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, broccoli, and lemon are affordable and widely available. The use of pantry staples such as olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese further enhances its budget-friendliness. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.

Is Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Healthy?

This lemon chicken with roasted broccoli recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, which adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy ingredients. Broccoli, a nutrient-dense vegetable, is roasted with olive oil and garlic, providing vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce the overall fat content
Reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade and for roasting the broccoli to lower the calorie density
Consider using a low-fat alternative to parmesan cheese, such as nutritional yeast or a smaller amount of a stronger-flavored cheese like pecorino romano
Add more variety to the vegetable component by incorporating other nutrient-rich options like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, you could:

Serve the lemon chicken and roasted broccoli over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
Include a side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes for extra vitamins and minerals
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or oregano to boost flavor without increasing calorie content
Experiment with different spice blends to keep the dish exciting and varied, such as a Mediterranean-inspired mix of oregano, thyme, and rosemary

Editor's Opinion on This Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli Recipe

This lemon chicken with roasted broccoli recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrusy tang, complemented by the aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning. Roasting the broccoli alongside the chicken not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the vegetable's natural sweetness and adds a satisfying crunch. The sprinkle of parmesan cheese on the broccoli and fresh parsley on the chicken elevates the dish with a touch of sophistication. Overall, it's a wholesome, flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Enhance Your Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the zesty notes of your lemon chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Herb-Infused Quinoa: Elevate your meal with a bowl of quinoa cooked to perfection and infused with a medley of fresh herbs. The nutty texture and subtle flavors will provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken and roasted broccoli.

Citrus Couscous Salad: Add a refreshing twist with a vibrant couscous salad, bursting with the tangy zest of citrus fruits. This light and colorful side dish will enhance the lemon theme of your main course, making each bite a burst of sunshine.

Buttered Asparagus Spears: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with melted butter and a hint of lemon will add a touch of elegance to your plate. The crisp texture and rich flavor will pair beautifully with the succulent chicken and roasted broccoli.

Tomato Basil Soup: Warm your soul with a bowl of tomato basil soup, where the sweetness of ripe tomatoes meets the aromatic freshness of basil. This comforting soup will provide a delightful contrast to the roasted elements of your meal, making it a perfect starter or side.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Lemon Chicken and Roasted Broccoli

Garlic Herb Chicken with Asparagus: This delightful main course features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a blend of garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then roasted alongside tender asparagus spears. The result is a flavorful and healthy dish that's perfect for any night of the week.

Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Carrots: A sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze coats succulent chicken breasts, which are then roasted to perfection with caramelized carrots. This dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Brussels Sprouts: Chicken breasts are marinated in a rich balsamic vinegar glaze and roasted alongside crispy Brussels sprouts. The combination of the tangy glaze and the earthy sprouts creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Teriyaki Chicken with Stir-Fried Vegetables: This Asian-inspired dish features chicken breasts marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce and stir-fried with a colorful mix of vegetables. It's a quick and easy recipe that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Mediterranean Chicken with Roasted Vegetables: Chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty Mediterranean blend of olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then roasted with a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. This vibrant dish is both healthy and delicious.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of parmesan for a golden, crispy top. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is bubbling. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Create a vibrant and fresh bruschetta to kick off your meal. Toast slices of baguette until golden and crispy. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Indulge in a lemon tart that perfectly complements your lemon chicken. This dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd that balances sweetness and acidity. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal.

Broccoli Brownies: Surprise your guests with broccoli brownies that are both delicious and nutritious. These brownies incorporate finely chopped broccoli florets into a rich, chocolate batter, adding a subtle earthiness that pairs well with the deep cocoa flavor. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a decadent treat.

Why trust this Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe:

This recipe combines the zesty flavor of lemon juice with the savory goodness of garlic and Italian seasoning. The chicken breasts are marinated to perfection, ensuring they are juicy and flavorful. Roasting the broccoli alongside the chicken not only saves time but also allows the vegetables to soak up the delicious flavors. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Trust this recipe for a balanced, easy-to-make meal that will impress your family and friends.

If you tried this Lemon Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience, tips, or any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, up to 4 hours will give it even more flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don't have a meat mallet to pound the chicken?

No worries! You can use a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy skillet to even out the thickness of the chicken breasts.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?

Absolutely, you can use dried parsley. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for fresh.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.