This Garlic Herb Chicken with Broccoli recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish perfect for a busy weeknight. It's packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family. This recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients and easy techniques, ensuring a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease of preparation and impressive flavor. The combination of garlic, herbs, and lemon juice creates a bright and savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. It's a one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency, making it ideal for those short on time. Furthermore, the recipe is easily adaptable to dietary needs; you can easily adjust the seasonings or add other vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 large head of broccoli: Cut into florets for even cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced for maximum flavor infusion.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps with browning.
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary works wonderfully. You can also use fresh herbs if you prefer.
- 1 lemon: Zested and juiced for brightness and acidity.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and zest and juice the lemon.
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Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
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Assemble and Bake: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts and broccoli florets in a single layer on a baking sheet.
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Roast to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Finish with Lemon Juice: Once cooked, drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken and broccoli. This adds a final burst of freshness and flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!
Tips and Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking sheet.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Add potatoes or other root vegetables for a complete one-pan dinner.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping. Prepare it ahead of time and reheat for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities. Generally, expect this dish to be a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
This Garlic Herb Chicken with Broccoli recipe is a delicious and healthy option for any weeknight dinner. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy individuals and families alike. Enjoy!
