Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a beloved stir-fry dish that perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with crisp, fresh broccoli, all coated in a savory, flavorful sauce. This dish is a cornerstone of Chinese-American cuisine, known for its simplicity and deliciousness. A healthier alternative to takeout, it’s made with wholesome ingredients and packed with protein and vegetables, making it both nourishing and satisfying. With its quick preparation time and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you’re craving a restaurant-style meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli recipe is more than just a quick dinner option. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant-Style Flavor: The rich, savory sauce tastes just like your favorite takeout spot, if not better.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich broccoli, and minimal oil, it’s a healthy and filling option.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients, spice level, and accompaniments to fit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this dish is perfect for family meals.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 300
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

This dish requires simple, fresh ingredients that combine to create a flavorful and well-balanced meal.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnishes (optional):

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
• Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, honey, and chicken broth. Set aside.

3. Steam the Broccoli

• Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, you can steam the broccoli for 3 minutes.

4. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

5. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

• Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok.
• Stir-fry the minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the blanched broccoli and pour the sauce over the top.
• Toss everything together to coat evenly, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

7. Serve

• Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the delicious flavors and textures in this dish:

• Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, chicken breast is perfect for stir-frying as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Broccoli: This nutrient-dense vegetable adds texture, color, and fiber to the dish. Its slightly bitter flavor pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
• Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, soy sauce provides the umami-rich, salty flavor that defines Chinese stir-fries.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the sauce, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.
• Hoisin Sauce: A thick, sweet-savory sauce that balances the flavors in the dish.
• Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics add a warm, zesty kick that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Cornstarch: Used in both the marinade and the sauce, cornstarch helps tenderize the chicken and gives the sauce a silky, thick texture.

Technique Tips

• Slice Chicken Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender. To make slicing easier, freeze the chicken for about 20 minutes before cutting.
• Blanch the Broccoli: Blanching or steaming the broccoli ensures it’s perfectly tender-crisp when added to the stir-fry.
• Cook in Batches: If using a smaller pan, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper browning.
• Mix the Sauce Thoroughly: Stir the sauce mixture before adding it to the pan, as the cornstarch may settle at the bottom.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Fried Rice: Serve the chicken and broccoli over fried rice for an indulgent twist.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the stir-fry into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, handheld option.
• On Noodle Bowls: Layer the chicken and broccoli over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty bowl meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ingredients First: Stir-frying moves quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.
• High Heat Cooking: Use high heat to quickly sear the chicken and vegetables, locking in their flavors and maintaining their texture.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Add more or less honey or sugar to adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Aim for tender-crisp broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and crunchy texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
• Extra Vegetables: Include mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for more variety and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the chicken and broccoli to cool completely, then store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Less Oil: Use just 1 tablespoon of oil for the stir-fry to reduce calories.
• Lean Protein: Opt for chicken breast or turkey for a lighter option.
• Whole-Grain Sides: Serve the dish over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
• More Greens: Add extra broccoli or leafy greens like spinach to boost the nutritional content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinners: Pair with steamed rice and egg rolls for a complete, family-friendly meal.
• Meal Prep: Divide into portions with rice and pack in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Party Buffet: Serve alongside other Chinese favorites like sweet and sour chicken, fried rice, and wontons for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Special Equipment

• Wok: A wok is ideal for stir-frying because of its high sides and ability to distribute heat evenly.
• Sharp Knife: Necessary for slicing the chicken and vegetables thinly and evenly.
• Rice Cooker: A helpful tool for perfectly cooked rice to serve alongside the stir-fry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid excess water in the stir-fry.

2. What other protein can I use?
You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, tofu, or pork.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken, broccoli, and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to cook.

4. Is this dish spicy?
The dish is mild by default but can be made spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce.

5. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch in the sauce mixture naturally thickens it when cooked. Ensure the sauce comes to a boil for the cornstarch to activate.

6. Can I use another vegetable?
Absolutely! Carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy are great alternatives or additions.

7. How do I avoid soggy chicken?
Cook the chicken in batches over high heat to prevent steaming and ensure it browns properly.

8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, simply add pre-cooked chicken during the final step to heat it through with the sauce and broccoli.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or want to impress guests with your cooking skills, this recipe is a surefire hit. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and rich, savory sauce come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even on its own, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade takeout-style food. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never need to order out again!

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