Cookwith

Name: Zesty Lemon-Herb Chicken with Charred Broccolini
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total); 1 tbsp kosher salt (for brine); 3 cups water (for brine); 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 8 oz broccolini (or tenderstem broccoli); 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional); 1 tbsp capers, drained (optional)

Zesty Lemon-Herb Chicken with Charred Broccolini

CaramelizedBroccoli5156

This vibrant, grain-free chicken dish draws on the foolproof technique of brining for juicy, flavorful meat. Fresh lemon zest and herbs bring brightness, while the chicken gets a golden sear and the broccolini is charred for irresistible crisp edges. The optional capers add a pop of briny complexity, making the plate both beautiful and bold in flavor. Perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner, this meal is ideal for clear-sky evenings and delivers on both nutrition and taste—no bread or grains in sight!

Ingredients

Instructions

In a medium bowl, dissolve 1 tbsp kosher salt in 3 cups water to create a 6% brine. Submerge chicken breasts and refrigerate for 20 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
Pat chicken dry after brining. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, half the lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, garlic, thyme, parsley, paprika, and pepper. Rub mixture all over chicken breasts.
Preheat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle broccolini with 1 tbsp olive oil and toss with chili flakes and a pinch of salt.
Grill or sear chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
While chicken rests, char broccolini in the same pan for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until crisp-tender and lightly blistered.
Slice chicken, arrange on plates with broccolini, and drizzle with remaining lemon juice. Scatter capers and additional parsley on top before serving.