Introduction

Chicken broccoli stir-fry is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines succulent chicken pieces with tender broccoli florets, all tossed in a savory sauce that brings the flavors together perfectly. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, providing a healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this stir-fry is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 500g, sliced into thin strips
Broccoli – 300g, cut into florets
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
Soy sauce – ¼ cup
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Sesame seeds – for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. Ensure even cuts to facilitate uniform cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Slice the bell pepper and onion. Prepare garlic and ginger by mincing them.

Step 4: Stir-fry the Chicken

Heat a large frying pan or wok over high heat. Add oil and, once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry until cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Stir-fry garlic and ginger for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add broccoli, bell pepper, and onion. Cook until vegetables are vibrant and tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Vegetables

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Mix well and stir for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 7: Add Sauce

Pour in the stir-fry sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully coated. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Variations

Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu according to your preference.

Note 2: Vegetable Choices

Additional vegetables such as carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms can be added for variety.

Note 3: Sauce Customization

Adjust the soy sauce and sugar quantities in the stir-fry sauce to meet your taste preferences.

Note 4: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Note 5: Cooking Tips

Ensure that your pan is hot enough when cooking to achieve a good stir-fry texture and to prevent sticking.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil over high heat. This technique retains the nutrients and colors of vegetables and ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken before stir-frying enhances its flavor and tenderness. It typically involves soaking the protein in a mixture of seasonings, which can include soy sauce, garlic, or ginger for added depth.

Blanching

Blanching is a preliminary cooking technique where vegetables are briefly boiled and then quickly cooled in ice water. This process helps preserve their bright color and crisp texture before they are added to the stir-fry.

Batch Cooking

Cooking in batches allows for a more even cooking process, ensuring that each ingredient has enough space in the pan. This technique helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than browning.

High Heat Cooking

Using high heat when stir-frying is crucial to achieving the desired wok hei, or “breath of the wok.” This smoky flavor comes from searing the ingredients quickly, locking in moisture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Yes, you can substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas based on your preference.

What type of chicken is best for stir-frying?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are commonly used for stir-frying as they cook quickly and are easy to slice.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this stir-fry gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge until you are ready to cook.

What can I serve with chicken and broccoli stir-fry?

This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Enjoying a Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry not only makes for a quick and satisfying meal but also provides a wholesome way to incorporate lean protein and nutritious vegetables into your diet. This dish is versatile and can easily be adapted based on personal preferences or ingredients on hand.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

A classic favorite, this dish pairs tender beef strips with broccoli in a savory garlic soy sauce for a hearty meal.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir Fry

Perfect for vegetarians, this recipe swaps chicken for tofu and introduces a colorful array of other seasonal vegetables.

Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir Fry

Add sliced bell peppers to your stir fry for an additional layer of flavor and color, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp, ensuring a quick-cooking dish full of flavor and protein.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

Incorporate zesty lemon and garlic for a bright and refreshing version of the classic stir fry, complementing the chicken beautifully.