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This post is all about Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Breasts with Steamed Broccoli.
This grilled lemon pepper chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon pepper seasoning resulting in juicy and tender meat.
The recipe is easy to follow and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Steamed broccoli adds a nutritious and vibrant side complementing the chicken beautifully.
Preparation of the Marinade
Creating a flavorful marinade is essential for achieving juicy and tender chicken. Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
This marinade not only infuses the chicken with zesty flavors but also helps to keep it moist during grilling. The combination of lemon and spices creates a delightful taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
Marinating the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken breasts. Place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
This step is crucial, as marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, consider marinating for a longer period if time permits, enhancing the taste even further.
Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to sear the chicken properly. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade to avoid contamination.
Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The grilling process not only cooks the chicken but also adds those beautiful grill marks that enhance its visual appeal.
Preparing the Steamed Broccoli
While the chicken is grilling, turn your attention to the broccoli. Steam the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for approximately 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender yet still vibrant green, preserving their nutrients and crunch.
Steamed broccoli serves as a nutritious side that pairs beautifully with the lemon pepper chicken. Its bright color and fresh taste add a lovely contrast to the dish.
Plating the Dish
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to plate your meal. Start by placing the grilled chicken breasts on a plate, arranging the steamed broccoli alongside them. For an appealing presentation, garnish the chicken with fresh lemon slices and herbs.
This not only enhances the visual aspect but also adds a fresh aroma that makes the dish even more inviting. The rustic wooden table setting further complements the home-cooked feel, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Enjoying Your Meal
Now that your beautifully grilled lemon pepper chicken and steamed broccoli are ready, it’s time to enjoy your creation. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is sure to impress. The combination of zesty chicken and vibrant broccoli creates a satisfying dining experience that is both healthy and delicious.
Quick and Healthy Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
This dish features marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection, served alongside fresh steamed broccoli. The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is grilling, steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still bright green.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken breasts with steamed broccoli on the side. Drizzle with additional lemon juice if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
