Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken With Roasted Broccoli

Name: Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken With Roasted Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 limes, juiced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I love making Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken With Roasted Broccoli for a wholesome dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of zesty lime and fragrant garlic brings the chicken to life, while the roasted broccoli provides a vibrant and nutritious side. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy after a long day, and I appreciate how simple it is to prepare. Just marinate the chicken, roast some veggies, and you have a balanced meal packed with goodness that everyone will love!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:17:36.984Z

When I first tried to create a healthy chicken dish, I was amazed at how combining garlic and lime completely transformed the flavor profile. The citrus not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a fresh zest that pairs perfectly with the savory garlic notes. I learned that marinating the chicken for just 30 minutes can dramatically enhance the taste, so now I always plan for a quick marinade!

Adding roasted broccoli to this dish was a game-changer for me. I discovered that tossing the broccoli in olive oil and garlic before roasting brings out its natural sweetness while keeping it slightly crisp. This adds a lovely contrast to the tender chicken, and it makes the meal feel gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this combo is worth a try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty flavors that brighten up your dinner
A healthy meal that’s packed with nutrients
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with the zesty flavors of lime and garlic. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but for even better results, try to let it soak for a few hours or overnight. This enhances the juiciness and flavor while also tenderizing the meat. As the chicken absorbs the marinade, the citric acid from the lime interacts with the proteins, making the meat not only tastier but also more tender.

When you prepare the marinade, ensure the garlic is freshly minced, as this will release essential oils that enhance the overall flavor. Olive oil helps in coating the chicken evenly, ensuring even cooking. If you're short on time, a quick 10-minute marinade could suffice, but keep in mind that a longer marinade yields a more intense flavor experience.

Perfect Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli is an art in itself; the goal is to achieve tender florets that are slightly crispy with golden edges. Make sure to cut the broccoli into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. The high heat from roasting helps caramelize the natural sugars in the broccoli, bringing out a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Watch for browning, but avoid charring; a vibrant green color with golden tips indicates they're done and ready to serve.

Adding garlic to the broccoli enhances its taste, but be cautious as minced garlic can burn quickly in the oven. To prevent this, add it halfway through the roasting process, stirring it in so that it becomes fragrant without degrading. If you prefer, you can substitute the broccoli with cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for a different twist while maintaining the same roasting technique.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 limes, juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Broccoli

2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

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

Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

Roast the Broccoli

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the broccoli for about 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.

Cook the Chicken

While the broccoli is roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

Serve

Once both the chicken and broccoli are cooked, plate them together. Drizzle any remaining lime juice over the chicken for an extra kick of flavor!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can also substitute the broccoli with your favorite seasonal vegetables, like carrots or asparagus.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One great aspect of this Healthy Garlic Lime Chicken is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to deepen. For storing leftovers, allow the chicken and broccoli to cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

When reheating, I recommend using an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to ensure even heating without drying out the chicken, while the broccoli can be roasted again briefly to revive its texture. If you have a microwave, you can use it; just be sure to cover the dish to avoid a rubbery texture, heating in intervals to maintain moisture.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to turn it into a feast, consider pairing it with a side of quinoa or brown rice. These grains complement the meal's nutrition profile while providing a satisfying chew. A light salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette can also enhance the freshness of the dish and add a crunch factor.

For a lively touch, drizzle some extra lime juice over the entire plate before serving, or even sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or green onions. Not only do these toppings add visual appeal, but they also contribute bursts of flavor that elevate the entire meal. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies for roasting as well – carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus all work well with this chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

→ Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While it enhances the flavor significantly, you can cook the chicken immediately if you're short on time.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken earlier in the day and roast the broccoli just before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can try bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for a different taste and texture.