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When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a dish that balances ease of preparation with vibrant flavors can be a challenge. Enter Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken with Broccoli Rice—a delightful combination that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon, the comforting tenderness of chicken, and the nutritional powerhouse that is broccoli. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also aligns perfectly with health-conscious eating, making it a prime candidate for both dinner tables and meal prep routines.

Lemon Pepper Chicken and Broccoli Rice

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken with Broccoli Rice, the perfect weeknight meal that's both easy to prepare and nutritious. This dish features tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and pepper, paired with a healthy broccoli rice base. Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s an ideal choice for dinner or meal prepping. Enjoy an explosion of flavor and a quick cooking time with this delightful recipe that enhances your dining experience while keeping it wholesome.
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 1/4 cups chicken broth or water

1 tablespoon butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and use your hands or tongs to ensure they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor absorption.

      Cook the Rice:

        In a medium saucepan, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir in the long-grain rice, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it cook for approximately 10 minutes. If using fresh broccoli, add the florets to the saucepan for the last 5 minutes of cooking to steam them perfectly. For frozen broccoli, steam the florets separately using a pot or microwave until tender, then fold them into the finished rice.

          Prepare the Chicken:

            Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade. Place the chicken on the grill or in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

              Finish the Rice:

                Once the cooking time for the rice is complete and both the rice and broccoli are tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Fluff the rice mixture gently with a fork and stir in the tablespoon of butter to enrich its flavor. Season with additional salt as needed to taste.

                  Plate the Dish:

                    To serve, slice the grilled chicken into strips and arrange it over a generous portion of the broccoli rice. For an added touch of color and freshness, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley on top.

                      Enjoy:

                        Serve your Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken with Broccoli Rice warm, and relish in the bright flavors of this delightful dish!

                          Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4