Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Broccoli and Garlic Green Beans
Tips for Experienced Cooks
For experienced chefs, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth and lemon juice for added depth of flavor. You can also experiment with additional herbs like tarragon or parsley. If you have a meat thermometer, use it to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked. For a twist, try finishing the dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Herbs
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 medium lemon
Step 5: Return Chicken to Skillet
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Roast the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- 1 large head broccoli (cut into florets)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step 7: Cook Garlic Green Beans
While the chicken is simmering and the broccoli is roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes, until crisp-tender. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- 1 pound green beans (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Step 8: Serve
Serve the lemon herb chicken over the roasted broccoli and garlic green beans. Spoon the pan sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tablespoons butter
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 large broccoli
- 1 pound green beans
- 1 medium lemon
Seasonings & Spices
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth