Name: Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thigh) (Choose chicken breast or thigh as per preference.); 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) (Shaoxing wine can be substituted with dry sherry.); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (For marinating.); 3 tablespoons oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry); 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce (or soy sauce); 1/4 cup chicken stock; 1 tablespoon sugar (Adjust according to taste.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (For thickening the sauce.); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 head broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets; 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil) (For cooking.); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

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If you’re craving the comforting taste of Chinese takeout without the hefty price tag, look no further than this homemade Chicken and Broccoli recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce that delivers that authentic takeout flavor right to your dinner table. I’ve made this dish countless times, especially on busy weeknights when everything seems to be on the go, and each time it’s met with rave reviews from my family. So, let’s dive into why making this dish at home is a fantastic idea!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are several reasons to try your hand at making Chicken and Broccoli from scratch. First off, this dish is quick — it can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. It’s also budget-friendly; with simple ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Let’s not forget the health aspect — you’re controlling the ingredients, ensuring it’s packed with wholesome goodness while avoiding any unnecessary additives. This dish is not just delicious; it’s family-friendly too! Kids love the tender chicken and bright green broccoli, plus the savory sauce is just the right amount of sweet and salty.

“This Chicken and Broccoli rivals my favorite takeout! So easy to prepare and bursting with flavor!” — A happy home cook.

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Chicken and Broccoli is a straightforward process that’s both rewarding and delicious. Start by marinating your chicken to infuse flavor. While it sits, you can prepare the sauce and steam the broccoli to keep its vibrant color and crunch. The magic happens when everything comes together in that sizzling skillet. In no time, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it was made in a restaurant kitchen.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

To create this delicious Chicken and Broccoli, here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thigh)
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce (or soy sauce)
1/4 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 head broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced

Feel free to swap out Shaoxing wine for dry sherry if you can’t find it, and any type of chicken piece will work wonderfully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by slicing the chicken against the grain into thin, bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re no thicker than 1/4 inch (about 1/2 cm). Place the sliced chicken in a medium bowl and add the marinade ingredients. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the other components.
In another bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients and stir until mixed. Set this aside.
Bring 1/3 cup of water to a boil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, cover, and steam until just tender, about 40 to 50 seconds. Transfer the broccoli to a plate and wipe any excess water from the skillet with a paper towel held in a pair of tongs.
Add the oil to the skillet, swirling to coat the bottom, then spread the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds until the bottom is browned. Flip to sear the other side for a few seconds, stirring until the chicken is lightly charred and still a bit pink inside.
Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring briefly to release their fragrance.
Return the broccoli to the skillet. Re-stir the sauce to dissolve the cornstarch fully, then pour it over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Cook and stir for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
Transfer everything to a plate immediately and serve hot with steamed rice or boiled noodles!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

For a beautiful presentation, serve your Chicken and Broccoli over a mound of fluffy white rice or on a bed of warm noodles. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an added touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of egg rolls or dumplings if you’re in the mood for a full-on takeout experience at home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your Chicken and Broccoli, allow it to cool, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for about 2-3 months. When reheating, always ensure the chicken is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A quick stir in a microwave or reheating in a skillet on medium heat works well.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Make sure to slice the chicken against the grain; this technique ensures tenderness.
You can adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of sugar in the sauce to your personal taste.
For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha when you toss in the garlic and ginger.

Creative Twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch, or swap the oyster sauce for hoisin if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile. Vegetarians can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, adding a plant-based protein that’s just as delightful!

Your Questions Answered

How long does this take to make?

This Chicken and Broccoli recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How do I make it healthier?

To lighten this dish, use less oil, swap out regular soy sauce for low-sodium versions, and increase the vegetable quantity for added fiber and nutrients.

With this easy-to-follow guide, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this homemade Chicken and Broccoli. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a piece of takeout magic into your home!