Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Introduction

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a beloved dish that effortlessly brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine to your dinner table. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows for a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone in the family will enjoy. The combination of tender chicken thighs marinated in a savory sauce, paired with crisp-tender broccoli, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t get enough of it! It has become a staple in our household, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Chinese Chicken and Broccoli.

Ingredients

Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thigh, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 tsp honey
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Stir Fry:

• 4 cloves of garlic, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water if unavailable)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil, separated
• 1 crown of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine the chicken pieces with honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least half an hour; for better flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Cook the Chicken

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the marinated chicken and chopped garlic, stir-frying for about 5 minutes until the chicken is mostly browned.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Stir-Fry the Broccoli

6. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of cooking oil along with the chicken broth and broccoli florets.
7. Cook on medium heat, covered, for 1 minute.
8. Uncover and stir-fry for about 2 more minutes or until the broccoli turns a vibrant green and is tender but still crisp.

Combine and Serve

9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with oyster sauce and sesame oil.
10. Stir-fry everything together to mix well and heat through.
11. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve over a bed of steamed white rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
• Pair with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.

Additional Tips

1. Chicken Cut: Using chicken thighs ensures a tender and flavorful dish, but chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option.
2. Broccoli Alternatives: Feel free to substitute broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy.
3. Marinade Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
4. Stir-Fry Technique: Keep the heat high during stir-frying to achieve a good sear and prevent steaming the chicken and vegetables.
5. Adjust Sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, increase the amount of chicken broth and oyster sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Sweet and Sour: Add pineapple chunks and a splash of rice vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar for a refreshing side.
• Include a warm miso soup for a comforting meal.
• Pair with steamed dumplings for a delicious appetizer.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

• Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster.

1. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

• If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

• Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but they may be less juicy than thighs.

1. What can I serve with this dish?

• Serve with rice, noodles, or a side of Asian-style vegetables.

1. How do I make this dish spicier?

• Add crushed red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a spicy sauce to the stir-fry.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes! You can include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

1. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

• Marinating enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it.

1. What type of pan is best for stir-frying?
   • A wok is ideal, but any large skillet will work.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and colors. This easy-to-follow recipe makes it a perfect addition to your weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. With the right ingredients and a little love, you can recreate a restaurant-quality meal at home that your family will adore. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

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