Here’s a long, detailed recipe for Grilled Chicken with Broccoli, including preparation, marination, grilling, and side tips to create a restaurant-style dish at home. This version includes multiple layers of flavor and techniques to make it extra special.
🍗 Grilled Chicken with Roasted Broccoli
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Marination Time: 2–12 hours
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
4 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Broccoli:
2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
2–3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of ½ lemon
Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (for a savory touch)
Optional Yogurt Herb Sauce (for serving):
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
1.
Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
2.
Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Remove from fridge 20–30 minutes before grilling to bring to room temperature.
3.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4.
Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess (don’t rinse).
Grill each breast for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Turn once during cooking and avoid pressing down to retain juices.
Optional: During the last minute, brush lightly with reserved marinade or a glaze (like honey + balsamic).
5.
Rest the Chicken
Transfer grilled chicken to a plate.
Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to retain juices.
🥦 Roasted Broccoli
6.
Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
7.
Roast
Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy and browned on the edges.
Remove from oven and immediately toss with lemon juice and zest.
Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan or nutritional yeast while hot.
🌿 Yogurt Herb Sauce (Optional)
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, dill, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill until ready to serve.
🍽️ To Serve
Slice grilled chicken against the grain.
Serve over a bed of roasted broccoli or alongside a grain like quinoa, farro, or brown rice.
Drizzle with yogurt herb sauce, or serve it on the side.
Garnish with extra lemon zest and fresh herbs if desired.
🔁 Variations & Add-Ons
Add spice: Use harissa, chipotle, or a smoky BBQ rub in the marinade.
Add crunch: Top the broccoli with toasted almonds or pine nuts.
Make it a bowl: Add a grain base and toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.
🥡 Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freeze grilled chicken for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently.
Roasted broccoli is best fresh, but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer.