Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Carrots & Parmesan Broccoli
Description:
This dish is a flavorful and balanced meal featuring juicy lemon herb-marinated chicken breasts, sweet roasted carrots, and tender-crisp broccoli topped with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats — perfect for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Lemon Herb Chicken:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Roasted Carrots:
1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Parmesan Broccoli:
1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken (15 minutes prep, or up to 4 hours in advance):
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken breasts, coat evenly, and marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes minimum (or up to 4 hours for best flavor).
2. Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Roast the Carrots:
Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
4. Roast the Broccoli:
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add to a separate baking sheet (or with the carrots halfway through).
Roast for 15–20 minutes, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Oven Option:
Place marinated chicken on a baking tray and roast for 20–25 minutes, until internal temp is 165°F (74°C).
Skillet Option:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Plate the chicken with roasted carrots and Parmesan broccoli. Add a lemon wedge for garnish if desired.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~430 kcal
Protein ~38 g
Carbohydrates ~18 g
Fat ~24 g
Fiber ~6 g
Sugar ~8 g
Sodium ~420 mg
Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients and quantities used.
Time Summary:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time (optional): 15 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time (excluding marination): ~45 minutes
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless thighs are juicier and also work well. Adjust cooking time to 25–30 minutes if baking.
Q: Can this meal be made ahead?
A: Yes. Marinate the chicken and prep veggies the day before. Roast and cook fresh for best texture.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check store-bought seasonings or cheese.
Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
Q: Can I air-fry the chicken?
A: Yes, air fry at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.