Spring Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

This Spring Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for a fresh seasonal dinner. With juicy chicken breasts, crisp-tender broccoli, and a zesty lemon sauce, it brings a burst of brightness to your table with minimal effort and cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
• One-pan convenience: Cook everything in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
• Nutritious and wholesome: High in protein and packed with vegetables.
• Fresh, bright flavors: Lemon juice and zest add a refreshing, tangy punch.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Lemon pepper
• Garlic powder
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Broccoli (roughly chopped)
• Butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, mix fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth.
4. Pound the chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness.
5. Season both sides of the chicken with the spice mixture.
6. In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
7. Add the chicken and sear for about 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
8. Turn off the heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and pour the lemon mixture around the chicken (not directly over it). Stir to incorporate.
9. Scatter the broccoli around the chicken in the skillet.
10. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and broccoli is tender-crisp.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 23 minutes

Variations

• Vegetables: Swap broccoli for asparagus, zucchini, or green beans.
• Creamy twist: Add a splash of cream or stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a richer sauce.
• Add heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne for a spicier dish.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor.
• Protein options: Use boneless chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets for a different protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I keep the chicken from drying out?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures uniform cooking, reducing the risk of overcooking thinner portions.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it first to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture and sauce.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

You can sear the chicken on the stovetop and then transfer everything to a baking dish for the oven portion.

Is it possible to grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grill the seasoned chicken and separately sauté the broccoli and lemon sauce on the stovetop.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.

What can I serve with this dish?

It’s great with rice, mashed potatoes, couscous, or a side salad.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and sear the chicken ahead. Bake it with the broccoli and lemon sauce when ready to serve.

Will this work with chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time to ensure doneness.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is possible, but note that the texture of broccoli may change slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

The Spring Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a fresh, fast, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for welcoming warmer days. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a convenient and healthy choice for weeknight dinners or light meal prep. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a favorite side, this dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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