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Chicken And Broccoli

By Evelyn Fletcher | May 31, 2026
Chicken And Broccoli
Sheet-Pan

Chicken And Broccoli

Prep15 min
Cook25 min
Total40 min
Serves4
Chicken And Broccoli
Delicious Chicken And Broccoli

I still remember the first time I made chicken and broccoli for my family. It was a weeknight, and I was looking for something easy and quick to make. I had all the ingredients on hand, and it turned out to be a huge hit. The combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and flavorful seasonings was a winner. Since then, it has become a staple in our household, and I make it at least once a week.

What I love about this recipe is that it is perfect for meal prep. I can cook a big batch of chicken and broccoli on the weekend and use it throughout the week in different meals. It's also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables I have on hand. And the best part is that it reheats beautifully, so I can enjoy it just as much on day three as I do on day one.

One of the things that sets this recipe apart is the way the flavors meld together. The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a nice brown crust on the outside and juicy meat on the inside. The broccoli is tender and slightly caramelized, with just the right amount of crunch. And the seasonings - oh, the seasonings! A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika gives the dish a depth of flavor that is just amazing.

So if you're looking for a delicious and easy meal prep recipe, look no further. This chicken and broccoli sheet pan recipe is a winner, and I know you'll love it just as much as my family does.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a big batch of chicken and broccoli that you can use throughout the week. I'll also give you some tips and variations to make the dish your own. So let's get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
  • It's perfect for meal prep, as it can be cooked in bulk and reheated throughout the week.
  • The dish is healthy and nutritious, making it a great option for families.
  • It's versatile, as you can use different seasonings and vegetables to make the dish your own.
  • It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it just as much on day three as you do on day one.
  • It's a crowd-pleaser, as it's a simple and delicious recipe that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the way the chicken and broccoli are cooked. By using a sheet pan, I can cook both the chicken and broccoli at the same time, which makes the recipe quick and easy. The chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), which ensures that it is safe to eat and juicy. The broccoli is cooked until it is tender, but still crisp, which gives it a nice texture.

The seasonings also play a big role in the flavor of the dish. I use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to give the chicken and broccoli a depth of flavor. The garlic powder adds a savory flavor, while the paprika gives the dish a slightly smoky taste.

Finally, the way the dish is reheated is important. I like to reheat the chicken and broccoli in the oven, which helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish. I simply place the chicken and broccoli on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is hot and steaming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The key players are chicken breasts, broccoli, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You'll also need some lemon juice and chicken broth to add moisture and flavor to the dish. Don't worry if you don't have all of these ingredients on hand - you can easily substitute them with other seasonings and vegetables to make the dish your own.

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, bonelessI like to use boneless chicken breasts for this recipe, as they cook more evenly and are easier to slice. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
  • 3 cups broccoli floretsFresh broccoli is best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen broccoli if that's what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oilOlive oil is a healthy and flavorful oil that works well for this recipe. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavor of the chicken and broccoli, and helps to bring out their natural sweetness. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a nice kick to the dish, and helps to balance out the flavors. Use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powderGarlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor to the dish without having to mince fresh garlic. You can also use minced garlic if you prefer.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprikaPaprika adds a smoky flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the flavors. Use sweet paprika for a mild flavor, or smoked paprika for a more intense flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juiceLemon juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the richness of the chicken and broccoli. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup chicken brothChicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish, and helps to keep the chicken and broccoli tender. Use low-sodium chicken broth to avoid adding too much salt to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish, and helps to balance out the flavors. Use curly-leaf parsley or flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Chicken And Broccoli

Equipment You’ll Need

Large sheet panOvenInstant-read thermometerSharp knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Chicken And Broccoli

  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C).
  2. 2
    Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. 3
    Place the chicken breasts on the sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the breast.
  4. 4
    While the chicken is baking, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate sheet pan. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. 5
    Remove the chicken and broccoli from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
  6. 6
    Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and place them on a serving platter with the roasted broccoli.
  7. 7
    Drizzle the chicken and broccoli with lemon juice and sprinkle with paprika.
  8. 8
    Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and broccoli to add moisture and flavor.
  9. 9
    Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
  10. 10
    Let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Expert Tips

  • Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don't overcrowd the sheet pan, as this can prevent the chicken and broccoli from cooking evenly.
  • Let the chicken and broccoli rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, as this helps to retain their juices.
  • Add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sheet pan for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use different seasonings such as dried herbs, spices, or citrus zest to give the dish a unique flavor.
  • Reheat the dish in the oven or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal.
  • Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos on top.
  • Serve the dish with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
  • Overcrowding the sheet pan, which can prevent the chicken and broccoli from cooking evenly.
  • Not letting the chicken and broccoli rest before slicing and serving, which can cause them to dry out.
  • Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
  • Not reheating the dish properly, which can lead to a dry and unappetizing meal.
  • Not adding enough seasonings or flavorings, which can result in a bland and boring dish.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos on top.
  • Use different seasonings such as dried herbs, spices, or citrus zest to give the dish a unique flavor.
  • Add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sheet pan for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts for a more budget-friendly option.
  • Add some cream or cheese to the dish for a rich and creamy sauce.
  • Serve the dish with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal.
  • Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

What to Serve With Chicken And Broccoli

This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, and can be served with a variety of sides such as quinoa, brown rice, or roasted potatoes. It's also a great option for meal prep, as it can be cooked in bulk and reheated throughout the week. Some other serving suggestions include:

Pairing the dish with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing meal.

Serving the dish with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or asparagus, for added nutrition.

Using the dish as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, with the addition of some cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

Quinoa or brown riceRoasted potatoesSteamed vegetablesSimple green saladSandwiches or wraps

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2-3 months. To store, let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze in airtight containers. To reheat, simply microwave or oven-heat until hot and steaming.

Some tips for storing and reheating the dish include:

Letting the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing, as this helps to prevent bacterial growth and keep the dish fresh.

Using airtight containers to store the dish, as this helps to prevent moisture and other flavors from getting in.

Labeling and dating the containers, so you can easily keep track of how long the dish has been stored.

Reheating the dish to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook chicken and broccoli?

The best way to cook chicken and broccoli is to bake them in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. This helps to bring out their natural flavors and textures, and ensures that they are cooked evenly and safely.

How do I know if the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

To check if the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast. The temperature should be at least 165 F (74 C).

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

How do I reheat the dish without drying it out?

To reheat the dish without drying it out, simply microwave or oven-heat until hot and steaming. You can also add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the dish to help keep it moist.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. Simply cook the chicken and broccoli, then let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve, then reheat as needed.

What are some variations I can make to this recipe?

Some variations you can make to this recipe include adding different seasonings or spices, using different types of protein or vegetables, or serving the dish with a variety of sides. You can also add some heat to the dish by sprinkling red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos on top.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, this recipe is healthy. It uses fresh and high-quality ingredients, and is low in calories and fat. The chicken and broccoli are also good sources of protein and fiber, making this dish a nutritious and satisfying option.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can make this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the chicken and broccoli in batches if necessary. You can also make the dish ahead of time and reheat it as needed.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Chicken And Broccoli

Chicken And Broccoli

Make ahead chicken and broccoli sheet pan recipe, easy to store and reheat, perfect for meal prep and family dinners

Prep15 min
Cook25 min
Total40 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, boneless
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C).
  2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Place the chicken breasts on the sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the breast.
  4. While the chicken is baking, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate sheet pan. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  5. Remove the chicken and broccoli from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and place them on a serving platter with the roasted broccoli.
  7. Drizzle the chicken and broccoli with lemon juice and sprinkle with paprika.
  8. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and broccoli to add moisture and flavor.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
  10. Let the dish cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

420Calories
40gProtein
20gCarbs
20gFat