Microwave Steamed Chicken Broccoli (Printable Page)

Tender chicken breast paired with crisp broccoli, steamed swiftly for a healthy and flavorful meal.

# What You Need:

→ Protein & Vegetables

01 - 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (10.5 oz)
02 - 2 cups broccoli florets (5.3 oz)

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ½ teaspoon paprika
06 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Moisture

07 - 2 ice cubes

→ Garnish (optional)

08 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
09 - Lemon wedges

# Steps:

01 - Cut chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
02 - Place broccoli florets and chicken pieces in a large microwave-safe dish.
03 - Drizzle olive oil over chicken and broccoli, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
04 - Spread mixture in a single layer and place two ice cubes on top.
05 - Cover tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap or lid, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
06 - Cook on high for 6 to 7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and broccoli is crisp-tender.
07 - Let dish stand covered for 1 minute to complete cooking with residual steam.
08 - Carefully remove cover to avoid steam burns. Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Dinner is ready in 17 minutes—faster than most takeout places deliver.
  • The ice cubes steam everything evenly, so your chicken actually stays moist instead of becoming a hockey puck.
  • One dish, minimal cleanup, and it tastes like you actually tried.
  • High protein, naturally low carb, and works with basically any diet you're following.
02 -
  • Those ice cubes aren't just a gimmick—they release moisture slowly and evenly, which is why your chicken doesn't dry out like it might in a regular microwave.
  • Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces makes an enormous difference; skip this step and you'll have undercooked centers or overcooked edges.
03 -
  • Always use microwave-safe containers and plastic wrap—cheap plastic wrap can melt and leach chemicals, so it's worth buying the good stuff.
  • The vent corner is crucial; too much steam escapes and you lose the moisture, but no vent and you risk your cover popping off.
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