Name: Scandalously Good Lemon-Herb Chicken with Charred Broccolini
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large lemon (zest + juice); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus extra to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 lb broccolini, trimmed; 1 tbsp avocado oil (or more olive oil); 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Scandalously Good Lemon-Herb Chicken with Charred Broccolini

CrushedLemon1034

Inspired by the viral 'kiss cam' incident, this dish brings a spark of drama to the dinner table—bold, layered flavors and a hint of intrigue! Succulent lemon-herb chicken, marinated for maximum juiciness, meets charred broccolini for a crisp, fresh contrast. The marinade delivers real zing from fresh lemon and herbs, while a final flourish of acid and herbs cuts through the richness—making every bite as memorable as a moment under the stadium lights. It’s a delicious, guilt-free recipe that keeps things both spicy and refreshing, worthy of a headline-making night.

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat chicken breasts dry and place in a shallow dish. Season all over with 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Let sit at room temperature while you prep other ingredients (salt early for maximum flavor).
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, half the lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well.
Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat. Let marinate at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 for more flavor).
Heat a large cast iron pan or grill pan over medium-high. Drizzle broccolini with avocado oil, remaining lemon juice, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat.
When pan is hot, add broccolini in a single layer. Char undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then toss and cook another 2-3 minutes until vibrant green with browned spots and crisp-tender. Remove to a platter and cover loosely with foil.
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook 5-6 minutes per side (without moving at first for good color), until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
Transfer chicken to rest for 3 minutes. Slice and serve over the charred broccolini. Drizzle with any pan juices, garnish with parsley, and finish with a pinch of extra salt and lemon zest if desired.