In a hurry but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal? Look no further! This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli recipe is your answer. It’s not only quick to prepare—taking only 20 minutes—but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, this dish captures the essence of takeout right in your kitchen. Say goodbye to long cooking times and hello to a delightful dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Substitutions: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in about half the time of traditional stir-fry recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken into thin strips, mince the garlic and ginger, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. This will help ensure a quick cooking process.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 5 minutes while you prepare the broccoli.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Step 5: Add Aromatics and Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Mix everything well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the previously cooked broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the broccoli is well-coated with the sauce and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli over cooked rice or noodles if desired, and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 32g |
This quick meal is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense, packed with protein and vitamins from the broccoli!
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
- Spicy Version: Add chili paste or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Additional Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or beef for a variation on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli dish goes perfectly with:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice for a traditional pairing.
- Egg noodles for a heartier meal option.
- Garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Broccoli: Cook broccoli just until it’s bright green and tender-crisp to retain its nutrients and texture.
- Using Too Much Cornstarch: Follow the recommended amount for a silky sauce—too much can make it overly thick and gluey.
- Not Using High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for that signature sear. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
Storage & Prep Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
You can also prep your ingredients beforehand by cutting the chicken and veggies and storing them separately. This way, when you’re ready to cook, it will take even less time!
Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli dish is a quick and flavorful option for busy weeknights, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your home in just 20 minutes. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for you and your family. Try it out and let us know how much you loved it!
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time to speed up cooking later. Just store the chicken and vegetables in the refrigerator. - What can I substitute for broccoli?
You can use asparagus, green beans, or bok choy for a delightful twist on this classic recipe! - Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and make sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.