Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
A classic dish combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, perfect for quick meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Main protein source
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Adds nutrition and crunch
Flavor Enhancers
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor and aroma
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced Enhances flavor and aroma
Sauces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred) Essential umami flavor
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce Adds depth and complexity
Thickening Agent
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Thickens the sauce
Cooking Oils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Facilitates stir-frying
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil Adds a nutty flavor
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar Balances savory notes
- to taste salt and pepper Enhances overall taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince garlic and ginger, and wash broccoli florets.
- Marinate the chicken with a tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper for at least 15 minutes.
- Blanch broccoli florets in salted boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice water bath.
Cooking
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
- In the last minute of cooking, add garlic and ginger. Then add blanched broccoli, remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and a cornstarch slurry.
- Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Notes
For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha. Don't overload the pan when cooking to prevent steaming.