Hey everyone! This Skillet Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is one of those effortless dinners that tastes like you put in way more work than you actually did. Juicy chicken gets a beautiful golden sear, then teams up with bright green broccoli in a simple, zesty lemon-garlic sauce—all made in one skillet for easy cooking and even easier cleanup. It’s fresh, healthy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something light but satisfying.
The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender-crisp broccoli turns basic chicken into something truly delicious. It’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, high in protein, and loaded with vitamins—ideal for anyone looking for clean, wholesome meals without sacrificing taste.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
This short ingredient list delivers big results:
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): Quick-cooking lean protein. Breasts stay light and healthy; thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing and sautéing—creates flavorful browned bits in the pan.
- Garlic: Brings bold, savory depth that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- Lemons (juice + zest): The star for brightness and acidity—cuts through richness and wakes up every bite.
- Broccoli florets: Adds color, crunch, fiber, and tons of nutrients without weighing the dish down.
- Italian seasoning: An easy herb blend (oregano, basil, thyme, etc.) for instant Mediterranean flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch for gentle heat if you like a little kick.
Everything cooks in the same skillet, so flavors mingle perfectly while you barely lift a finger.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, about 1.5 lbs total)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons (about ½ cup juice)
- 1 lb (450g) fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- For serving: cooked rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a side salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the chicken — Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (this helps it brown nicely). Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken — Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/75°C). Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the broccoli — Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and sauté 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Make the sauce — Pour in the lemon juice and add the zest. Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Bring it together — Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the broccoli. Spoon the lemon-garlic sauce over the chicken and simmer everything together for 2 more minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve — Dish it up straight from the skillet! Pair with rice, quinoa, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
- Use a wide skillet (at least 12 inches) so the chicken has room to sear properly.
- Don’t move the chicken too much while searing—let it develop that golden crust.
- Fresh lemons make all the difference—bottled juice lacks the vibrant zest.
- For more sauce: Add ¼ cup chicken broth or white wine with the lemon juice.
- Frozen broccoli works great—just add a minute or two to the cooking time.
- Always use a meat thermometer for perfectly juicy chicken.
Variations and Substitutions
Keep it exciting with these easy twists:
- Protein swap: Shrimp, salmon fillets, or tofu cubes.
- Extra veggies: Asparagus, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach.
- Creamy version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan at the end.
- Herb boost: Fresh basil, oregano, or dill instead of Italian seasoning.
- Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Oven method: Roast everything on a sheet pan at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Low-carb/keto: Serve over cauliflower rice or with extra greens.
Meal Prep, Storage, and Serving Ideas
This skillet meal is excellent for meal prep! It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days in airtight containers. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce—avoid the microwave if possible to keep the broccoli crisp.
Serving suggestions:
- Over fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the sauce.
- With crusty bread for dipping.
- Topped with feta, toasted pine nuts, or extra fresh herbs.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings, Using Chicken Breasts)
Approximate values using standard data
- Calories: 330
- Protein: 56g (outstanding for satiety and muscle support)
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g (natural from lemon and veggies)
- Total Fat: 16g (mostly heart-healthy from olive oil)
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: ~500mg (varies with added salt)
- Key Micron-utrients: Very high in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium
A bright, balanced meal that’s light on calories but big on nutrition and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes—just add it straight from frozen and cook a couple minutes longer.
Chicken thighs or breasts? Breasts for leaner; thighs for more flavor and forgiveness if slightly overcooked.
Can I make it ahead? Definitely—the flavors get even better as it sits.
Not enough sauce? Add a splash of chicken broth when you add the lemon juice.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! The lemon is bright but not overpowering—many kids love it.
There you have it—your new favorite Skillet Lemon Garlic Chicken with Broccoli. Quick, colorful, and bursting with fresh flavor, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Enjoy! 🍋🐔🥦