Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a classic and popular dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its savory flavors and nutritious balance. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp, fresh broccoli, all stir-fried in a delicious sauce that's both sweet and savory. It's a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthier alternative to takeout. Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that's sure to please any palate.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thigh, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoon honey
- 2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Stir Fry:
- 4 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or water if unavailable)
- 2 tablespoon cooking oil, separated
- 1 crown of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 teaspoon honey, 2 teaspoon sesame oil, 2 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the rest of the ingredients. Roughly chop 4 cloves of garlic and cut the crown of broccoli into florets. Set aside.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and stir-fry until they are cooked through and lightly browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender. Add ¼ cup of chicken broth (or water) to the skillet and cover. Let the broccoli steam for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Add 1 tablespoon oyster sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and broccoli are well coated with the sauce. Season with salt to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chinese Chicken and Broccoli hot, ideally over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Note:
- It's important to cook the chicken and broccoli at the right temperature. The chicken should be cooked on medium-high heat to ensure it's browned and not overcooked, while the broccoli should be cooked quickly to retain its crispness.
Serving Suggestions:
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is best served hot, over a bed of steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. You can also pair it with other Chinese dishes for a full meal.
Tips:
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for longer, up to an hour if time allows.
- Broccoli Cooking: Adjust the steaming time for the broccoli based on your preference for crispness.
- Sauce Variation: Feel free to adjust the amount of oyster sauce or add a bit of soy sauce for a more intense flavor.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving (varies based on the serving size and specific ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce used
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a quick dinner or a nutritious meal prep option. Its combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce creates a satisfying and delicious dish that's a staple in Chinese cooking. Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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