Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon

Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe | Easy 25-Minute Meal

This Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon recipe is one of my favorite dinner recipes. Made with juicy, tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and fresh lemon juice, this easy chicken broccoli recipe is the perfect one-skillet meal for a busy weeknight.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy chicken dinner, a low-carb skillet meal, or a quick chicken and vegetable recipe, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s naturally gluten-free, meal prep-friendly, and made with simple, healthy ingredients you probably already have at home. Also, with its irresistible garlic-lemon flavor combination, it’s sure to become a new family favorite!


This Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon recipe is going to be your new favorite! If you’re following a low-carb diet, looking for a healthy skillet meal, or want a quick and satisfying chicken and broccoli recipe, this dish is a must-try!

  • Quick and easy: This one-skillet chicken dinner is ready in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but delicious.
  • Healthy and nutritious: Loaded with lean protein from chicken breasts and fiber-rich broccoli, this dish is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
  • Packed with fresh flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and tender chicken creates an irresistible tangy flavor that feels fresh, light, and satisfying.
  • Minimal ingredients: You only need a few simple, everyday ingredients to make this healthy dish, like fresh garlic, lemon, olive oil, and chicken breasts.
  • Meal-Prep Friendly: This Lemon Garlic Chicken and Broccoli preserves well and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for preparing your lunch or dinner for the week.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of garlic and lemon flavors – it’s a sure hit for the whole family!
  • Customizable: Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas to boost nutrition and color in your meal.
Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon – Ingredients

🥦 Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon

🍗 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

Lean, tender, and perfect for a quick, healthy chicken dinner. Slice into strips for faster cooking.

🥦 Fresh Broccoli Florets

Bright, crunchy, and packed with nutrients — ideal for a wholesome garlic chicken and broccoli meal.

🧄 Fresh Garlic Cloves

Essential for that bold, savory garlic flavor. Always better than garlic powder!

🍋 Fresh Lemon

Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest add the perfect citrusy brightness to balance the savory chicken.

🍾 Olive Oil

Heart-healthy and flavorful — ideal for sautéing both chicken and vegetables.

🧂 Salt and Black Pepper

Simple seasoning to bring out all the natural flavors of your garlic lemon chicken.

🌶️ Optional: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Add a spicy kick if desired — completely customizable based on your taste preference.

🛒 Quick Ingredient Checklist:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Fresh broccoli florets
  • Fresh garlic cloves
  • Fresh lemon (juice and zest)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
💡 Pro Tip: For maximum flavor in your lemon garlic chicken and broccoli skillet, always use fresh garlic and lemon instead of bottled substitutes!


How to Make Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon (Step-by-Step)

Follow these easy steps for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that’s ready in just 25 minutes!

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice the chicken, chop the broccoli, mince the garlic, and slice a lemon. Prepping first makes the cooking process fast and easy!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken strips in a single layer until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed!

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

Remove the chicken. Stir-fry broccoli in the same skillet until tender-crisp and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Do not overcook!

Step 4: Add Garlic and Lemon

Add minced garlic to the center of the skillet and cook until fragrant. Return chicken, squeeze lemon juice over everything, and toss to coat evenly!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice!

Quick Summary

This easy garlic chicken and broccoli meal is fresh, flavorful, and ready faster than you can order takeout! Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days.



What to Serve with Garlic Lemon Chicken and Broccoli

1. Rice Options:

A simple yet satisfying base for your Garlic Lemon Chicken and Broccoli. Choose from:

  • Cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly option.
  • Brown rice for a hearty, fiber-packed side.
  • White rice if you prefer a light and fluffy classic choice.

2. Quinoa:

Packed with protein and nutrients, quinoa is a great gluten-free and high-protein option. Its mild flavor complements the citrusy lemon garlic chicken perfectly.

3. Roasted Vegetables:

For a colorful and nutritious side, serve your chicken and broccoli alongside roasted vegetables like:

  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini These add extra flavor and texture to balance the meal.

4. Garlic Bread:

A crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. This classic pairing enhances the garlic flavor in the chicken while adding a comforting crunch. It’s perfect for mopping up any remaining lemony sauce!

5. Light Salad:

Pair your Garlic Lemon Chicken with a fresh, crisp salad to keep things light. Try a Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the flavors of the dish.

6. Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus:

For a quick, healthy side, serve your chicken and broccoli with steamed green beans or asparagus. Both are light, flavorful, and provide a fresh contrast to the chicken.

7. Sweet Potatoes:

If you’re looking for something heartier, roasted or mashed sweet potatoes provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory garlic lemon chicken. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and make for a satisfying side.

8. Pasta or Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles):

For pasta lovers, try whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles) to keep it healthy and low-carb. Toss them in a bit of olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for extra flavor.



Yield: 4

Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe | Easy 30-Minute Meal

Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon

This recipe with lemon garlic and broccoli is ready in just 25 minutes. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a delicious lemon garlic sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s the perfect choice for a busy weeknight, meal prep, or low-carb dinner. The combination of lemon and garlic brings out a bright, bold flavor that makes this dish easy and satisfying. Also, it’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, and easily customizable to suit your dietary needs.

This easy chicken broccoli recipe is perfect for those who want a quick, nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Whether you serve it with quinoa, or cauliflower rice, or enjoy it on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your regular dinner rotation!

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen and thawed)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth (or water, optional for more saucy texture)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prepare the chicken:
    Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
  • Cook the chicken:
    Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  • Sauté the broccoli:
    In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the pan seems too dry.
  • Add garlic:
    Push the broccoli to the side of the pan and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Combine everything:
    Return the chicken to the pan. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until heated through and coated evenly.
  • Finish and serve:
    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot!
  • Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
  • Don't overcook broccoli — it should stay bright green and slightly crisp for the best texture.
  • Double the sauce if you like your dish extra saucy — just add more lemon juice, a little chicken broth, and a touch more garlic.
  • Add-ins: Toss in some sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or bell peppers to make it even more colorful and hearty.
  • Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy version.
  • Nutrition Information:

    Yield:

    4

    Serving Size:

    1

    Amount Per Serving: Calories: 320Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 97mgSodium: 294mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 38g

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    Garlic Chicken FAQ Section

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture. This will help achieve the perfect texture when sautéing. Fresh broccoli is ideal for a crisp bite, but frozen is a convenient alternative for busy nights.

    Leftovers of this healthy chicken and broccoli recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great meal prep option if you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal later in the week!

    This garlic lemon chicken recipe is naturally dairy-free, as it doesn’t include butter or cream. If you want to make it even richer, you can add a dairy-free creamy option like coconut milk or almond milk for a delicious twist.

    This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with:

    • Quinoa for a protein-packed side.
    • Cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
    • Brown rice or white rice for a more traditional pairing.

    For a more complete meal, pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread!

    For meal prep, simply store individual portions of Garlic Chicken and Broccoli in airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. This dish holds up well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

    Yes! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas to the dish for additional flavor and texture. You can also try a variety of low-carb vegetables if you prefer a more veggie-packed meal.

    Yes! This Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. It’s the perfect healthy dinner option for anyone following a keto diet. Just skip the rice or pair it with cauliflower rice for a completely low-carb option.

    If you love a little heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the dish. You can also try adding jalapeños for an extra spicy kick. Customize the heat level to your taste!

    Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts. Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor to the dish. Make sure to cook them thoroughly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook compared to breasts.

    This family-friendly chicken recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. The lemony garlic sauce makes the chicken and broccoli irresistible to all ages.



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