Dinner

Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon Recipe

Bylilan Sage February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Introduction

This Garlic Chicken and Broccoli with Lemon is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with crisp broccoli in a garlicky, tangy sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day of the week.

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a simple dish with two main layers: on the left, bright green broccoli pieces with a slightly rough texture, topped with a light sprinkling of white grated cheese; on the right, four thick slices of tender-looking cooked chicken breast arranged neatly in a row, covered in a glossy brown sauce with small bits of seasoning, some sauce spread around the chicken on the plate. A silver fork and knife rest on the left edge of the plate with some grated cheese around them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, patted dry
Salt and pepper
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small head broccoli (about ¾ pound), cut into bite-sized florets, stem cut into ½-inch slices on the diagonal
4 garlic cloves, chopped
2 to 3 oil-packed anchovies (to taste), drained and chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper and set them aside.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and the butter in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and bubbles, place the chicken breasts smooth side down into the pan. Partially cover the pan to reduce splatter and sear until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip the chicken, cover with the lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the broccoli pieces, tucking them in around the chicken. Cover again and cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and the broccoli is slightly tender, about 6 to 9 minutes. Remove the broccoli to a serving plate and transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
Step 4: Pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the pan. Stir in the chopped garlic and anchovies. When they start to sizzle, after about 1 minute, add ¼ cup water and the lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Slice the chicken diagonally and arrange it on the plate with the broccoli. Spoon the pan sauce over the top and grate or shave Parmesan cheese over everything before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a milder anchovy flavor, start with 1 anchovy and adjust to taste.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans if preferred.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a meal with two main parts: on the left, bright green broccoli pieces with a slightly wet look, sprinkled with fine white shavings, likely cheese; on the right, sliced chicken breast arranged in four pieces with a golden-brown sauce spread under and around them, showing a smooth texture with small bits of seasoning; the broccoli is also partly covered by the sauce. A silver fork and knife rest neatly on the left side of the plate against a white marbled surface background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

What if I don’t have anchovies?

You can omit anchovies for a milder taste, though they add a nice umami depth. Alternatively, a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can provide some savory complexity.