Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey that brings a taste of Chinese cuisine into your kitchen! This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli dish is not only quick to prepare but also brimming with vibrant flavors and textures. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, the cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the chicken is marinating, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken and stir-fry it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp and vibrant green.
- Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until they release their aromatic fragrance.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, and sesame oil. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and broccoli beautifully, and heat it all through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect final touch.
- Serve this savory chicken and broccoli stir-fry over fluffy cooked rice, making sure to drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra crunch, consider tossing in some toasted sesame seeds right before serving. Additionally, you can customize the veggies by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful and nutritious twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the stir-frying technique, which involves cooking food quickly at high heat in a small amount of oil. This not only helps retain the vibrant colors and nutrients of the vegetables but also ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender.
FAQ
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
No problem! Simply substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
What other proteins can I use?
You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a pan over low heat before serving.
Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic way to bring the restaurant experience to your home kitchen. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and nutritious ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the bursts of flavor in every bite, and don’t forget to share this delightful meal with family and friends!