If you’re searching for a meal that packs bold, zesty flavor and delivers a deliciously healthy punch, Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli will absolutely win you over. Imagine juicy, tender chicken infused with garlicky citrus, paired with broccoli roasted just until the edges crisp, all coming together in less than an hour. It’s the sort of simple dish you look forward to all day and one you can confidently serve for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike. Bright, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli is my go-to for a meal that always impresses without taking hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s no need to overcomplicate things! Every ingredient here is classic, easy to find, and plays a starring role in creating the vibrant flavors and appealing textures that make Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli so irresistible.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy grilling and optimal tenderness.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness, helps the marinade penetrate, and ensures those gorgeous charred grill marks.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic brings a wonderful sharp and aromatic depth to both marinade and chicken.
- Lemon (juice and zest of 1): The combination of juice and zest gives a double burst of refreshing citrus flavor.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy Mediterranean note that marries perfectly with lemon and garlic.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential to bring out all the other flavors (use kosher salt for best results).
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For a bit of warmth and balance to the marinade.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the grilled chicken.
- Broccoli (1 large head, cut into florets): Roasts up deliciously crisp-tender and holds up beautifully alongside the chicken.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds just a hint of heat to the broccoli; tailor this to your spice preference.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
Start by grabbing a small bowl and whisking together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This super simple marinade is the magic behind every juicy, flavorful bite of chicken, and couldn’t be easier to throw together in a couple of minutes.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag, then pour that glorious marinade right over them. Turn the chicken a few times so every piece gets fully coated. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (an hour or two is even better!) to soak up all those citrusy, herbaceous flavors.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until each piece is cooked through and reaches 165°F internally. You’ll smell that irresistible blend of smoky grill and bright, garlicky lemon as the chicken develops beautiful grill marks.
Step 4: Roast the Broccoli
While the chicken is grilling, preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Toss everything well so every floret is coated, then roast for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway, until the broccoli is tender and those edges start to brown and crisp up.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the grilled lemon garlic chicken alongside the roasted broccoli, and offer a few extra lemon wedges for good measure. The chicken’s fresh, garlicky punch paired with the savory, crispy broccoli makes Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli a combination you’ll want to put on repeat.
How to Serve Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli
Garnishes
A finishing touch can take this meal over the top. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a little extra lemon zest over both the chicken and broccoli for a pop of color. If you like, add a light shower of grated Parmesan cheese on the hot broccoli for a salty, creamy finish. The bright green and yellow hues make Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli feel as fresh as it tastes.
Side Dishes
You really can’t go wrong with a side of fluffy quinoa, herby brown rice, or even a slice of crusty bread to soak up any leftover marinade and roasted juices. For a super light, refreshing meal, pair with a simple green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, try slicing the chicken and serving it family-style over a big platter of the roasted broccoli, garnished with lemon wedges and herbs for a vibrant, inviting look. You can also chop the leftovers and toss everything together in a grain bowl or wrap for a delicious next-day lunch. However you serve it, Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli always brings both color and flavor to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli store beautifully. Let the chicken and broccoli cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the broccoli separate to prevent it from getting soggy, and you’ll thank yourself when lunch or dinner rolls around again.
Freezing
If you want to stock your freezer, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts in single portions for up to two months. While broccoli doesn’t freeze as well (it can lose its crunch), it’s still doable—just reheat from frozen and expect a slightly softer texture.
Reheating
For best flavor and texture, reheat chicken and broccoli separately. Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F or in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. Roast or sauté the broccoli quickly so it stays a bit crisp. A quick blast in the microwave will do in a pinch, but the oven keeps everything tasting freshly cooked.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic swap in Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli. They’re juicy, flavorful, and hold up well on the grill. Just adjust cooking time as needed—thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What’s the best way to get perfect grill marks on chicken?
Preheat your grill thoroughly and lightly oil the grates before adding the chicken. Don’t move the chicken until it naturally releases from the grates and you’ll get those beautiful seared lines everyone loves.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Even 30 minutes in the marinade makes a difference, but for the boldest flavor in Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours. If you’re planning ahead, overnight is great for even deeper citrusy, garlicky goodness.
Can I roast the chicken instead of grilling?
If you don’t have a grill, roasting the chicken at 425°F will work nicely. Bake on a foil-lined sheet for about 20–25 minutes, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli keeps well in the fridge and tastes just as delicious cold or reheated, making it a perfect candidate for prepping lunches or dinners for the week ahead.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for something wholesome, flavorful, and sure to impress, give Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli a spot in your weekly meal rotation. It’s one of those recipes that feels special yet totally doable, and I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with the simplicity and sunshine on your plate.
Print
Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious and healthy dinner with this Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken served with Roasted Broccoli. The zesty flavors of lemon and garlic perfectly complement the tender grilled chicken, while the roasted broccoli adds a delightful crunch to the meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Broccoli:
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Roast the Broccoli: While the chicken is grilling, preheat the oven to 425°F. Place broccoli florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, and toss to coat. Roast broccoli for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly crisp on the edges.
- Serve: Serve grilled chicken alongside roasted broccoli with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Add grated Parmesan to the broccoli before roasting for a cheesy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with broccoli
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
