If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that packs a punch of flavor, let me introduce you to my Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet! This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, taking just about 25 minutes from start to finish. The juicy, tender chicken pairs perfectly with vibrant, crisp broccoli, all tossed in a zesty lemon garlic sauce that brings everything to life. Trust me, the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil is simply irresistible! Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s also a healthy option that’s gluten-free and loaded with protein. You’ll feel great serving this up to your family or even for a cozy dinner for one. Let’s dive into how to whip this beauty up!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
- Juice of 1 lemon (feel free to adjust to your taste!)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t hold back on the seasoning!)
How to Prepare the Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer a bit before adding the chicken, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left in the center!
- Once the chicken is golden, toss in the minced garlic. This is where the magic happens! Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn—burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Next, add the fresh broccoli florets and pour in the lemon juice. Stir everything together, making sure the broccoli gets coated in that delicious lemon garlic goodness. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still crisp.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it one last stir, and it’s ready to serve hot! Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—everyone’s palate is different, and you want this dish to sing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is tight but you still want something homemade and delicious.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and vibrant veggies like broccoli, this dish is not only fulfilling but also nutritious. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it’s a great option for many dietary needs!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken and broccoli to a whole new level. You’ll be left craving more after every bite!
- Versatility: Feel free to switch things up! This recipe easily adapts to whatever you have on hand—whether it’s swapping chicken for tofu, adding different vegetables, or even trying out other spices. It’s a canvas for your creativity!
Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can dice the chicken and chop the broccoli in advance. This way, when it’s time to cook, you can just grab everything and go!
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Let the chicken brown nicely before adding the garlic. This develops a deeper flavor that makes your dish even more delicious! You want that golden crust, so resist the urge to stir too much.
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Fresh garlic really makes a difference in flavor. If you can, use fresh cloves instead of pre-minced. The aroma alone is worth it!
- Adjust the Lemon: If you love a tangy kick, don’t hesitate to add more lemon juice! Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Test for Tenderness: Keep an eye on the broccoli while it cooks. You want it to be tender but still have a bit of crunch. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy, and we definitely want to avoid that!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they make a fantastic filling for wraps or salads the next day. Just reheat gently to keep everything juicy and flavorful!
Variations
- Protein Swaps: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using shrimp or scallops instead of chicken! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as seafood cooks much faster. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh—both soak up that delicious lemon garlic flavor beautifully.
- Veggie Mix-Up: Don’t feel limited to just broccoli! You can add a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or even asparagus. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, nutrient-packed skillet that’s as pretty as it is tasty!
- Herb Infusion: Want to elevate the flavor even more? Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme just before serving. It adds a fresh, aromatic touch that will make your dish feel gourmet!
- Spice it Up: For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. It’ll give your Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet a nice kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Grain Additions: Consider serving this dish over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a heartier meal. It transforms the dish into a complete dinner that’s satisfying and wholesome.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is super easy. Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the next day!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently. You can pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Or, if you prefer, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep everything moist and prevent sticking. Stir it gently until it’s warmed through, and voilà! You’ll have a tasty meal ready to go that tastes almost as good as the first time around!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delightful Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet. Remember, these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 36g
It’s a wholesome meal that keeps you fueled without weighing you down—perfect for those busy days when you need a healthy boost!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and broccoli a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and texture!
What can I use instead of chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu works wonderfully! Just make sure to press it first to remove excess moisture. You can also use shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist—just remember they cook faster than chicken!
How do I know when the broccoli is done?
You want your broccoli to be bright green and tender but still slightly crisp. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 3-5 minutes after adding it to the skillet. Keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness!
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. The more, the merrier!
What can I serve with the Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet?
This dish is fantastic on its own, but for a heartier meal, consider serving it over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A nice crusty bread on the side wouldn’t hurt either to soak up all that delicious lemon garlic sauce!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet, the possibilities are endless! I love to pair it with a fluffy side of brown rice or quinoa; they soak up that zesty lemon garlic sauce beautifully and make for a filling meal. If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, try serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still delivers on taste!
Another favorite of mine is to add a simple side salad. Just toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the savory skillet dish perfectly! And don’t forget about bread—some crusty baguette or warm naan is fantastic for dipping into any leftover sauce. Yum!
For a heartier meal, consider roasting some sweet potatoes or even making a creamy potato mash to serve alongside. The contrast of flavors and textures will elevate your dining experience! Whatever you choose, just know that this Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is versatile enough to shine with any side you decide on. Enjoy every bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out this cheesy broccoli recipe or this healthy chicken alfredo recipe!
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Lemon Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Skillet: 25-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy lemon garlic chicken and broccoli skillet dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add broccoli and lemon juice. Stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Cook until broccoli is tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust lemon juice according to taste.
- Serve with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Chicken, Broccoli Skillet, Quick Dinner