Chicken and Broccoli is a classic dish that perfectly blends tender chicken with crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté garlic and fresh chicken, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that promises to transport you to culinary bliss.
This dish isn’t just about satisfying your hunger; it carries memories of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Chicken and Broccoli brings everyone together for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken and Broccoli dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavor profile combines savory chicken with fresh broccoli in a delightful sauce
- Visually appealing, this dish adds vibrant colors to your dinner plate
- It’s versatile enough for stir-frying, baking, or even serving over rice or noodles!
Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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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.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they’re essential for that aromatic kick!
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Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition; choose vibrant green florets for the best results.
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness while still packing in flavor.
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Sesame Oil: A dash of this oil brings a nutty richness that elevates the whole dish.
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Honey: This sweet element balances out the savory notes of the soy sauce perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing your broccoli florets and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Slice your chicken breasts into thin strips; this helps them cook evenly.
Step 2: Season Everything
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken strips. Don’t be shy; season it well! This will ensure that every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Get Cooking
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some cooking oil (olive or vegetable works great). Once heated, toss in the chicken strips. Cook until they’re golden brown—about 5-7 minutes—stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Broccoli
Once your chicken is looking fabulous, add minced garlic and broccoli florets to the pan. Stir everything together and let them cook for another 3-5 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 5: Whisk Up That Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and a splash of water. Pour this glorious concoction over your chicken and broccoli mixture.
Step 6: Combine It All
Stir everything together gently so that each piece gets coated beautifully in that sauce. Cook for an additional couple of minutes until everything is heated through.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now go ahead! Relish in your culinary masterpiece of Chicken and Broccoli. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming a little tune while serving—it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken and broccoli dish offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling, but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with chicken and broccoli, start by searing the chicken to lock in those fabulous juices. While that’s sizzling, prepare your broccoli and any sauces needed. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, creating a harmonious dish.
Add Your Touch
Get creative with your chicken and broccoli recipe! Swap out regular broccoli for broccolini or add in some colorful bell peppers or carrots. Experiment with spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes for a kick, making each meal uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store your leftover chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep the chicken juicy and the broccoli vibrant.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect chicken and broccoli, always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
- Cut your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking
- Finally, don’t skimp on seasoning; it’s key to transforming ordinary into extraordinary!
Sometimes I wonder how many times I’ve made chicken and broccoli for my friends who claim they can’t cook. Each time they taste it, their eyes light up like they’ve just discovered gold—turns out they can cook after all!
FAQs:
What are the health benefits of Chicken and Broccoli?
Chicken and Broccoli is a nutritious dish that provides essential vitamins and minerals. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle building and repair. Broccoli, on the other hand, is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Together, they create a balanced meal that supports overall health. Eating this dish can aid in weight management due to its low-calorie content while keeping you full. Additionally, the combination offers anti-inflammatory properties that can enhance your immune system.
How do I store leftover Chicken and Broccoli?
To store leftover Chicken and Broccoli properly, allow it to cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it into an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage, up to three months. When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This practice ensures that you enjoy your delicious meal safely at another time.
Can I use frozen broccoli for Chicken and Broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for Chicken and Broccoli recipes. Frozen broccoli is often pre-blanched and retains much of its nutritional value. It’s convenient and saves preparation time since you won’t need to wash or chop fresh broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking to avoid excess water in your dish. While fresh broccoli may provide better texture, frozen broccoli works well for a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.
What sauces pair well with Chicken and Broccoli?
When preparing Chicken and Broccoli, several sauces enhance the flavor profile beautifully. A classic choice is soy sauce mixed with garlic and ginger for an Asian-inspired taste. Alternatively, teriyaki sauce adds a sweet touch that complements the dish nicely. For a creamier option, consider using alfredo sauce or a light cheese sauce for richness without overwhelming flavors. Each of these sauces elevates the dish while maintaining its healthful character.
Conclusion for Chicken and Broccoli:
In conclusion, Chicken and Broccoli is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients that promote a healthy lifestyle. This dish combines lean protein from chicken with fiber-rich broccoli for a balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoying leftovers is simple when stored properly, ensuring you maximize your efforts in the kitchen. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen ingredients, there are various ways to enjoy this delightful recipe with different sauces enhancing its appeal. Embrace this wholesome dish as part of your regular meal rotation!
Chicken and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken and Broccoli is a deliciously wholesome dish that harmoniously combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a burst of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings loved ones together around the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (olive or vegetable)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing broccoli and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Slice chicken breasts into thin strips for even cooking.
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add cooking oil. Once hot, cook the chicken until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet; cook for another 3-5 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and a splash of water. Pour over the chicken and broccoli mixture.
- Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce and cook for an additional couple of minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
