The aroma of sizzling chicken mingled with the fresh scent of broccoli is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. As this dish dances on your taste buds, you’ll find yourself lost in a savory symphony that’s hard to resist. Picture tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich sauce, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli that pops with color and crunch. Just one bite transports you back to family dinners where laughter and delicious flavors filled the air, making this dish a timeless classic.
Remember that time I tried impressing my friends with this chicken and broccoli recipe? Spoiler alert: I forgot to buy broccoli! But my creativity kicked in, and I used whatever veggies were lying around. We laughed so hard at my “surprise” fusion dish, but the flavors still shined through. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this chicken and broccoli recipe never fails to deliver mouthwatering goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful chicken and broccoli recipe makes cooking easy and enjoyable for everyone
- Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a hit at any meal
- The vibrant colors are sure to catch eyes and appetites alike
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—perfect for dinner parties or quick weeknight meals
When I first served this dish at a family gathering, everyone went back for seconds—and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for the perfect balance of protein and flavor.
Fresh Broccoli: Look for bright green florets; they add both color and crunch to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves work best; their pungent aroma will elevate your dish beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce provides all the umami without overwhelming saltiness.
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle adds a nutty depth that transforms this dish into something special.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice; choose firm pieces for maximum flavor.
Chicken Broth: A splash of broth enhances moisture while keeping everything tender and juicy.
Cornstarch: Use cornstarch as a thickening agent for your sauce; it creates a luscious coating.
Optional Red Pepper Flakes: Kick up the heat if you like; it adds an exciting zing!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop them into manageable pieces. Slice the chicken into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Toss in the chicken cubes until well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat some oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broccoli: Toss in fresh broccoli florets into the pan with the chicken. Sauté together until the broccoli turns bright green but remains crisp—around 3-4 minutes.
Create Your Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any tasty bits left in the pan. Stir everything together until heated through—this brings all flavors together beautifully.
Serve Hot!: Plate your delicious chicken and broccoli mixture over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired—dig in while it’s hot!
This chicken and broccoli recipe is not only straightforward but also allows room for creativity based on what you have on hand. Enjoy exploring flavors while making memories around your table—it’s what cooking is all about!
You Must Know
- This chicken and broccoli recipe combines tender chicken with vibrant, nutrient-packed broccoli
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel warm and inviting
- It’s not just healthy; it’s a delightful dish that even picky eaters will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then cook it until golden brown. Sauté the broccoli in the same pan for added flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for asparagus or add extra spices like chili flakes for heat. Your dish can be as unique as you are!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your chicken is evenly cut for uniform cooking
- Keep a close eye on the broccoli to prevent overcooking; it should be bright green and crisp
- Use fresh garlic for a punch of flavor that transforms the dish entirely
Creating this chicken and broccoli dish became a family favorite after my kids praised my “chef skills” during dinner one night.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour for better flavor absorption.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh broccoli gives a better texture and flavor overall.
What can I serve with this chicken and broccoli recipe?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal experience.
Chicken and Broccoli
Chicken and broccoli is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant, crunchy broccoli, all coated in a delicious, savory sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering mouthwatering flavors that will impress your family and friends. With just a few essential ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep by chopping the chicken into bite-sized cubes and the broccoli into florets.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sauté marinated chicken until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add broccoli and sauté until bright green but crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the pan to incorporate flavors. Heat through.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles and garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
