Baked Chicken Broccoli

Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal? This Baked Chicken and Broccoli recipe is the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken and crisp, roasted broccoli, all baked together in one dish. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a wholesome family dinner.

This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The chicken is seasoned to perfection and baked alongside broccoli, which turns beautifully crisp around the edges while staying tender on the inside. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or balanced diet, this meal fits the bill.

The best part? Minimal cleanup! Everything is baked on a single sheet pan, making this dish both convenient and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add your favorite seasonings, swap in different vegetables, or even top it with cheese for a creamy twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Less mess, easy cleanup!
• Nutritious and balanced – High in protein and fiber, low in carbs.
• Customizable – Change up the seasonings or add extra veggies.
• Meal prep-friendly – Stores well for lunches throughout the week.
• Perfectly seasoned – Simple spices enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
• Quick and easy – Only 10 minutes of prep time, then the oven does the work!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with broccoli

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional, for Extra Flavor)

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Season the Chicken

• In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.
• Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then rub half of the seasoning mix evenly over them.
• Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the chicken to help lock in moisture and create a golden crust when baked.

3. Prepare the Broccoli

• In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining olive oil and seasoning mix.
• Spread the broccoli evenly on the baking sheet, making sure there’s some space between each piece to allow for crispiness.

4. Bake the Chicken and Broccoli

• Place the chicken breasts on the sheet pan next to the broccoli.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• For extra golden brown edges, broil for the last 2-3 minutes on high.

5. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional, for Extra Flavor)

• While the chicken bakes, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
• Drizzle over the chicken and broccoli right after removing from the oven for an added burst of flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top if desired.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dish!

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Chicken breasts are lean and high in protein, making them a healthy choice. If you prefer juicier meat, use chicken thighs instead.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a fiber-rich, low-carb vegetable packed with vitamins C and K. Roasting enhances its natural sweetness and gives it a deliciously crispy texture.

Olive Oil & Butter

Olive oil helps crisp up the broccoli while butter adds richness and flavor to the garlic sauce.

Technique Tips

• Cut broccoli evenly – This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from burning.
• Use a meat thermometer – This guarantees that the chicken is perfectly cooked and remains juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Spacing out the chicken and broccoli allows them to roast properly instead of steaming.
• Marinate for extra flavor – If you have time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes in a mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for 5 extra minutes until melted.
• One-Pan Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Toss the baked chicken and broccoli with cooked pasta and Alfredo sauce.
• Rice Bowl: Serve the chicken and broccoli over steamed rice or quinoa.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make it spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• For extra crispiness: Roast the broccoli separately for the last 10 minutes at 425°F.
• Use different seasonings: Try Cajun, curry, or lemon-pepper for a new flavor twist.

Recipe Variations

• Honey Mustard Chicken Broccoli: Mix 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard and brush over the chicken before baking.
• Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli: Drizzle with teriyaki sauce before serving for an Asian-inspired twist.
• Keto Version: Omit the parmesan and ensure seasonings have no added sugar.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and broccoli in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduce the butter – Use olive oil only for a lower-fat version.
• Swap out chicken for tofu – A great vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower make great additions.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Weeknight Dinner: Serve with quinoa or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers with brown rice for easy lunches.
• Family Gathering: Pair with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well, but it requires some preparation to ensure it roasts properly without becoming soggy.

• Thaw first: Let the broccoli thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This prevents steaming and ensures a crispy texture.
• Roast at a higher temperature: If you’re using frozen broccoli directly from the freezer, increase the oven temperature to 425°F and bake for a few extra minutes to help it crisp up.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier and more flavorful option.

• Cooking time: Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, as thighs take longer to cook than breasts.
• Temperature check: Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C), which is slightly higher than chicken breasts for optimal tenderness.
• Boneless vs. bone-in: Boneless thighs will cook faster, while bone-in thighs may take up to 40 minutes.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be prepared in advance. Here’s how:

• Marinate the chicken: Season the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Chop the broccoli ahead of time: Store it in a separate container so it stays fresh and crisp.
• Assemble and refrigerate: You can place the chicken and broccoli on the sheet pan, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

4. How do I keep the chicken juicy?

• Use a meat thermometer: Overcooking dries out the chicken. Remove it from the oven when it reaches 165°F for breasts and 175°F for thighs.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices for maximum tenderness.
• Use a marinade: Marinating for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic enhances flavor and moisture.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Give each piece enough space so it bakes evenly without steaming.

5. Can I add cheese?

Yes! Cheese adds extra flavor and richness to this dish. Here are some great options:

• Parmesan: Adds a slightly nutty, salty taste.
• Cheddar: A sharper, more robust cheese that pairs well with broccoli.
• Mozzarella: Mild and creamy, creating a melted topping.
• How to add it: Sprinkle cheese over the chicken and broccoli during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts beautifully without burning.

6. What other veggies work well in this dish?

This recipe is highly customizable, and you can swap or add different vegetables to create new flavors. Here are some great options:

• Carrots: Sweet and slightly crunchy—slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
• Bell peppers: Adds color and sweetness.
• Zucchini: Softens quickly, so cut into larger chunks to avoid overcooking.
• Cauliflower: Roasts well alongside broccoli and provides a similar texture.
• Green beans: Stay crisp and add a fresh contrast.
• Brussels sprouts: Halve them and place them cut-side down for a crispy texture.

7. Can I marinate the chicken?

Yes! Marinating the chicken enhances both flavor and tenderness. Here are some simple marinades:

• Classic garlic and herb: Olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and Italian seasoning.
• Spicy marinade: Olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
• Honey mustard marinade: Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and black pepper.
• Marinating time: Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge) for maximum flavor.

8. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! The air fryer is a great alternative for achieving a crispy texture in less time.

• Temperature: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Cooking time:
  • Chicken breasts: 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Chicken thighs: 22-25 minutes.
  • Broccoli: Air fry separately at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Tips: Avoid overcrowding the basket so everything cooks evenly.

Conclusion

This Baked Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it tonight for a satisfying and wholesome dinner!

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