If you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying meal option, Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is the perfect dish to consider. This delightful stir-fry combines tender pieces of chicken breast with crisp-tender broccoli in a savory sauce that packs a flavorful punch. Within just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but you still want something nutritious. The vibrant colors and aromatic ingredients will make this dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable; you can adjust the seasoning or add extra vegetables based on your preferences. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture; frozen florets can be used in a pinch but may become mushy
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Oyster Sauce: Adds depth of flavor; opt for vegetarian versions if needed
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce; mix with water before adding to ensure smooth consistency
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by cutting the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch mixed with water, minced garlic, and mix well until combined.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides—approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Once the chicken is cooked through, add broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for another three minutes until the broccoli turns bright green.
Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Mixture
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli in the skillet. Stir continuously until everything is well-coated with sauce—cook for an additional two minutes.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Transfer to plates or bowls immediately. Serve over steamed rice or enjoy as-is for a delightful finish.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to include bell peppers or snap peas if you want extra crunch and nutrition
How to Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can chop the broccoli and chicken ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Prepare the sauce in advance, which can be kept in the fridge for three days to enhance flavors.
- Storing: Place any leftovers in an airtight container. They will maintain quality in the refrigerator for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags, where they can last up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, use a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel and heat on medium for two to three minutes until hot. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
FAQs for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
What is the best way to prepare chicken for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
To achieve tender and flavorful chicken in your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli dish, start by selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Begin by slicing the chicken into thin strips, which helps it cook evenly and quickly. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a dash of sesame oil for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the meat with authentic Asian flavors. When cooking, use a hot wok or skillet, adding a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Stir-fry the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, usually about 5-7 minutes. Using high heat ensures that the chicken remains juicy while developing a slight char that enhances the overall taste of your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli.
Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a classic choice for this dish, you can easily swap it out for other vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, bok choy, or even cauliflower work beautifully in place of broccoli. Keep in mind that different vegetables have varying cooking times; for instance, snap peas will cook faster than broccoli. To maintain a balance in texture and flavor, consider adding your chosen vegetables at different times during cooking. For instance, harder vegetables like carrots may require additional cooking time compared to softer options like snow peas.
How can I make my Chinese Chicken and Broccoli healthier?
To make your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli healthier, consider using lean cuts of chicken and incorporating more colorful vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of oil used during cooking by opting for non-stick cookware or using a spray oil to limit calories. Instead of regular soy sauce, try using low-sodium soy sauce to lower the sodium content without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, serving over brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice boosts fiber content and adds nutrients to your meal. Lastly, you can enhance flavors with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions rather than relying solely on sauces.
What sauces are commonly used in Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
The sauce plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli dish. A traditional option is a simple combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil mixed together to create a rich umami flavor. Some recipes also incorporate hoisin sauce for sweetness or chili paste for heat. If you prefer homemade sauces, consider whisking together cornstarch with water to thicken the mixture while adding depth to your dish. Ultimately, choosing sauces depends on personal taste preferences; feel free to experiment with varying ingredients until you find what suits your palate best.
Can I make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Chinese Chicken and Broccoli ahead of time is not only convenient but also allows flavors to meld beautifully. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re meal prepping for later use, consider keeping the sauce separate until ready to serve; this prevents the broccoli from becoming soggy over time. When reheating, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through—add a splash of water if needed to restore moisture. This makes it easy to enjoy this delightful dish even on busy weekdays!
What is traditionally served with Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is often served alongside steamed rice or fried rice as part of a complete meal. White rice is common due to its neutral flavor that complements the savory elements of the dish well. However, you can also opt for healthier choices like brown rice or quinoa if preferred. Additionally, many people enjoy pairing their meals with egg rolls or spring rolls as appetizers for added crunch and texture before diving into their main course. A side salad dressed lightly with sesame dressing can round out your meal nicely while introducing freshness.
Conclusion for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
In summary, preparing delicious Chinese Chicken and Broccoli at home is both achievable and rewarding. By selecting quality ingredients such as tender chicken and fresh broccoli while utilizing flavorful sauces enhances every bite’s enjoyment. You can customize this dish further by experimenting with various vegetables or sauces based on personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Meal prepping makes enjoying this delightful recipe even easier during hectic weeks ahead! Remember that making small adjustments—like opting for healthier carbs—can elevate this classic dish into something nutritious without losing its essence. Enjoy this flavorful journey into Asian cuisine right from your own kitchen!
Print
Easy Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful stir-fried dish that marries tender chicken with crisp broccoli in a savory, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for quick dinners without sacrificing taste. Enjoy it over rice or on its own for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh broccoli florets
– Garlic cloves
– Low-sodium soy sauce
– Oyster sauce
– Cornstarch
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and rinse broccoli under cold water.
2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch with water, and minced garlic.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken until browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Add broccoli and stir-fry for another 3 minutes until bright green.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli; stir until well-coated (about 2 minutes).
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or enjoy as-is.
Notes
– Customize your dish by adding bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch.
– For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g