Elevate your classic baked chicken breast and steamed broccoli dish to new heights with unexpected ingredients and techniques that will surprise and delight your taste buds. This recipe not only promises succulent chicken and perfectly steamed broccoli but also introduces a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and transfer it to the prepared baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken breasts for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
- While the chicken is baking, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender yet still vibrant green, about 5-7 minutes.
- You can steam the broccoli using a steamer basket on the stove or by microwaving it in a covered microwave-safe dish with a splash of water.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken is done baking and the broccoli is steamed, arrange the chicken breasts on a serving platter alongside the steamed broccoli.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with cooked rice or quinoa to complete the meal.
Variations and Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Substitute fresh herbs for dried ones, using a 3:1 ratio (e.g., 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs).
- Add a kick of heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the chicken before baking.
- Experiment with different marinades such as honey mustard or balsamic glaze for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless? A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: How do I know if the chicken is done baking? A: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink.
Q: Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
