If you're on the hunt for a dish that combines simplicity with a burst of flavor, look no further than this Lemon Herb Chicken and Broccoli. With its vibrant lemony zest and aromatic herbs, this dish will elevate your weeknight dinners without breaking a sweat.
Chicken breasts are the heart of this dish, providing a lean protein that absorbs the flavors beautifully. The broccoli brings a nutritional punch and adds a lovely contrast in texture. Olive oil not only helps to marinate the chicken but also adds a rich, smooth touch. Garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable aroma, while lemon juice and zest offer that fresh, tangy flavor that makes everything pop. The thyme and rosemary give depth and earthiness, making the dish aromatic and savory. A bit of salt and black pepper enhances all the other flavors. Chicken broth ensures the broccoli stays moist and tender as it bakes. Finally, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a subtle, nutty richness.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices. A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette could also complement the flavors beautifully. Don't forget to serve with extra lemon wedges for those who want an additional zesty kick!
To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it's hot and ready when your dish goes in. While the oven heats, take a large bowl and combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir them together until they're well mixed, creating a marinade that smells divine.
Next, add the chicken breasts to this marinade, turning them over a few times to make sure they're thoroughly coated. Let them sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes — this is where the magic happens, where all those flavors start to soak into the chicken.
Once marinated, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Arrange the broccoli florets around the chicken. This way, the broccoli will soak up some of that flavorful marinade and chicken juices as it cooks. Pour the chicken broth over the broccoli, which helps keep it tender and prevents it from drying out during baking.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over everything. This will melt and create a slight crust as it bakes, adding extra flavor and texture. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's done when the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
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