Looking for a fresh and flavorful dinner idea that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients? This Broccolini Chicken Recipe is just what you need!
Combining tender chicken breasts with vibrant broccolini, garlic, and a touch of lemon, this dish is a perfect weeknight meal that balances protein and greens effortlessly. The broccolini adds a delightful crunch and a mild, sweet flavor, making it a wonderful alternative to traditional broccoli.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing taste.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain.
Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This broccolini chicken recipe is a win-win for busy cooks and health-conscious eaters alike. It’s:
- Quick and easy — ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious — loaded with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from broccolini.
- Flavor-packed — garlic, lemon, and a hint of chili flakes add a delicious punch.
- Versatile — pairs well with various sides or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Minimal cleanup — a one-pan recipe that saves time on washing dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed and rinsed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Tongs or spatula
- Serving plate
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets to ensure quick and even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Place your large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic and broccolini: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccolini and chili flakes, if using. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the broccolini is bright green and slightly tender.
- Add the broth and lemon juice: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Toss everything together and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broccolini to soften just a bit more.
- Combine chicken and broccolini: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the broccolini. Spoon some of the flavorful pan sauce over the chicken. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright finish, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 15-30 minutes with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
If you prefer, swap out broccolini for regular broccoli or asparagus for a different twist. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to introduce a savory depth.
To keep this recipe keto-friendly, serve it with cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad. Alternatively, pair it with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
If you want to make it spicy, add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (serves 2) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 40g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 70% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This broccolini chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome, balanced plate, serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or roasted baby potatoes.
If you want to keep it light, a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the citrusy notes of the chicken perfectly.
For an Asian twist, try serving it with garlic fried rice or add a drizzle of soy sauce and sesame seeds before serving. You can also pair this dish with your favorite crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices.
Looking for more wholesome recipes? Check out our All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas for comforting meals or discover quick and tasty options like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.
For a vegetarian delight, try the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
Conclusion
This broccolini chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity and adaptability make it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner after work or meal prepping for the week, the combination of tender chicken and crisp broccolini will satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized.
By incorporating fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this dish embodies healthy home cooking at its best. Give it a try tonight, and you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on our site to keep your culinary adventures exciting and delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Broccolini Chicken Recipe
Description: A quick and healthy stir-fry combining tender chicken with fresh broccolini and a savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner packed with flavor and nutrients.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 1 lb broccolini, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Toss chicken slices with cornstarch and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and broccolini to the skillet; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour sauce mixture and water into the skillet; stir and cook until sauce thickens.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 12 g
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