Chicken Breast with Broccoli

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A healthy and delicious dish that pairs tender chicken breast with vibrant broccoli for a satisfying meal.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:54:48.796Z

This Chicken Breast with Broccoli recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and the vitamins from the broccoli makes it a perfect choice for a healthy dinner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Packed with protein and vitamins for a nutritious meal
  • Flavorful and satisfying, making it a family favorite

A Nutritious Choice

When it comes to healthy eating, few dishes can compete with chicken breast and broccoli. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Pairing it with broccoli, which is rich in vitamins C and K, creates a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body. This meal is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a flavorful, hearty dish.

In addition to being nutrient-dense, this recipe is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain or lose weight. By choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you're opting for a leaner protein source, while the broccoli adds fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety. Enjoying this meal regularly can help you achieve your health goals without sacrificing taste.

Perfect for Busy Schedules

Life can get hectic, especially during weekdays when you're juggling work, family, and personal commitments. This Chicken Breast with Broccoli recipe is designed with busy lifestyles in mind. With a prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious meal ready in no time. It's perfect for those evenings when you want to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

The simplicity of this recipe means that even novice cooks can tackle it with ease. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare an impressive dish that feels special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this meal is sure to impress without taking up your entire evening.

Versatile Variations

While this Chicken Breast with Broccoli recipe is delicious as is, one of the best aspects of cooking is the ability to customize dishes to your liking. Consider adding spices like paprika or chili flakes for a kick of heat, or incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and flavor. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs.

For a heartier option, serve the chicken and broccoli over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This will not only enhance the dish's texture but also provide additional nutrients and fiber. Feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or a light soy sauce, to put your own spin on this classic meal. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure to wash the broccoli thoroughly before cooking.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Sauté the Broccoli

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute before adding the broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.

Combine and Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it over the sautéed broccoli. Enjoy!

Pair this dish with a side of brown rice for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Breast with Broccoli dish is versatile enough to be served in various ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of whole grain rice or quinoa. The nutty flavors of these grains complement the savory chicken and vibrant broccoli perfectly. Alternatively, you could serve it with a fresh mixed green salad for a lighter option, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette to tie the flavors together.

If you want to elevate your dining experience, consider garnishing the dish with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the flavor profile of the meal. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also provide a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers from this Chicken Breast with Broccoli recipe, you're in luck! This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and broccoli in a suitable container for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes the recipe not only a quick meal option but also a great make-ahead dish for busy weeks ahead.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking.

→ How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces for a few hours before cooking.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for additional color and nutrition.

Chicken Breast with Broccoli

A healthy and delicious dish that pairs tender chicken breast with vibrant broccoli for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken and Broccoli

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 2 cups broccoli florets
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1 teaspoon lemon juice

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Step 02

Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 03

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute before adding the broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.

Step 04

Slice the chicken and serve it over the sautéed broccoli. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 50g