Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken With Roasted Broccoli

Name: Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken With Roasted Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 limes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making this Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken with Roasted Broccoli. The combination of zesty lime and aromatic garlic infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while keeping it light and healthy. Roasting the broccoli alongside means you get a delicious side dish that's both vibrant and nutritious. This recipe has become a favorite in our household, especially when we want something that tastes indulgent without the guilt. Plus, it's quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:37:36.624Z

The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into something so flavorful. The lime juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a fresh zing that pairs wonderfully with the garlic. I often substitute other veggies depending on what I have on hand, but broccoli is my go-to for its great texture and taste.

I also learned that marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes makes a big difference, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper. If I’m short on time, a quick toss in the marinade and it’s still delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your weekly rotation!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty and fresh flavors from garlic and lime
Healthy yet satisfying chicken dinner
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals

The Role of Marinade in Flavor Development

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe because it allows the flavors of the garlic and lime to penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. The acidity from the lime juice not only enhances taste but also aids in tenderizing the chicken. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for a deeper flavor, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge can elevate your dish significantly.

It's important to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade for optimal flavor absorption. If you notice some areas are less coated, use a basting brush or your hands to massage the marinade into the meat. This enhances the overall taste with every bite. Always remember to cover the bowl tightly to prevent any contamination while it marinates.

Perfect Roasting Techniques for Broccoli

When preparing your broccoli, the method of roasting is what transforms it from ordinary to extraordinary. Tossing the florets in olive oil not only adds flavor but helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Be generous with the salt and pepper, as these seasonings bring out the natural sweetness of the broccoli without overwhelming its taste. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a light coating but ensure they are not swimming in oil, which can lead to sogginess.

For even roasting, spread the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they are overcrowded, they will steam rather than roast, impacting their texture. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until the edges are slightly crispy and the florets are tender—about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes, as they can quickly go from perfectly roasted to overdone.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 2 limes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika

For the Roasted Broccoli

1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to marinate the chicken while you prepare the broccoli for a more impactful flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Broccoli

On a large baking sheet, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer.

Roast the Chicken and Broccoli

Add the marinated chicken breast to the baking sheet alongside the broccoli. Roast for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with roasted broccoli.

Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the roasted broccoli for an extra flavor boost, or incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. You can also swap out broccoli for seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, adjusting roasting times if necessary for different textures.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the chicken and broccoli over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This not only provides additional fiber but also makes the dish more filling and satisfying. Adding freshly chopped cilantro or green onions as a garnish can brighten the plate and enhance the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven to preserve the texture of the chicken. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through, to avoid drying out the meat.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli. Place them in freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove excess air, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for broccoli?

You can use any vegetable you like, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.