Chicken and Broccoli

Growing up, I always ordered chicken and broccoli when we got Chinese food. It was my favorite, especially with white rice. This simple yet flavorful combination is a staple in various cuisines around the world. It’s one of those classic dishes you have to learn to make at home because it tastes so good!

Why Everyone Loves This Recipe:

1. Authentic Takeout Flavor: My recipe replicates the authentic flavors of your favorite takeout chicken and broccoli dish. This tastes just like if you ordered out, but so much better.

2. Versatile: Whether you prefer your dish spicier or sweeter or would rather add your favorite veggies instead of broccoli, this recipe allows you to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

3. Healthier Alternative: By using fresh ingredients and controlling the cooking process, you can enjoy a healthier version of this popular takeout dish without sacrificing taste. You can control the sodium, sugar, and fat content!

Do I Have To Use Chicken Breast?

Most people prefer to use Chicken Breasts, but you can also use chicken thighs because with their higher fat content, they are harder to overcook, and all that extra fat equals nothing but flavor flavor flavor!   

Tips and Shortcuts for making Chicken and Broccoli: 

1. Use pre-cut or frozen broccoli to save time, but remember to pat it dry to prevent it from becoming too soggy while cooking.

3. To make it spicier, add hot chili oil, sriracha, red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce.

4. Substitute plain white rice with fried rice or noodles for a different twist.   

Try out my Fried Rice or Lo Mein recipe and replace the meat with your Chicken and Broccoli!

Ingredients: (Full Recipe Below)

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts- love chicken breasts for this recipe because that’s what’s used when you order takeout, but you can use thigh meat too!
• Broccoli Florets– Fresh is always best but you can use frozen
• Soy Sauce- This adds sodium and a umami flavor
• Chicken Broth- This adds sodium and flavor
• Minced Garlic- Garlic makes everything better!
• Sesame Oil– This is what you’ll sear your chicken in, it adds flavor!
• Hoison Sauce– This adds a little sweetness to your chicken and broccoli; it’s a must!
• Cornstarch- This will thicken your sauce
• Sugar– This is a takeout treat, so adjust the sugar as needed!
• Shao xing Wine (optional but recommended)– If you can find it, I reccomend it, it adds that authentic Chinese American flavor
• Rice Wine Vinegar– I love using rice wine vinegar!
• Water– For the chicken marinade
• Baking Soda– This adds texture to the chicken

How to Make Chicken & Broccoli:

Prep your chicken

1. Combine baking powder, cornstarch, cold water, and rice wine vinegar with sliced chicken.

Stir-Fry your chicken

2. In a large wok, add in sesame oil and sear chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove.

Make your sauce, and add it to your wok!

Sure! Here’s a clearer version:

Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, shao xing wine, and chicken broth in a small bowl. Pour the mixture into the wok. Add garlic to the same pan, then pour in the sauce mixture and allow it to combine. Finally, add the cornstarch slurry.

Mix everything together

Add steamed broccoli and chicken, and combine them. Serve the chicken and broccoli over cooked white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Substuitions and Recipe Variations

For Chicken:

1. Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed.
2. Tempeh: A nutty-flavored protein that can be marinated similarly to tofu.
3. Shrimp: Adds a seafood twist to the dish.
4. Pork: Thinly sliced pork loin or tenderloin, marinated and stir-fried.
5. Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin, marinated and cooked similarly to chicken.
6. Seitan: A high-protein, meat-like texture perfect for vegetarians or vegans.

Recipe Subsititions For Broccoli:

1. Cauliflower: Similar texture and can be stir-fried just like broccoli.
2. Green Beans: Crunchy and fresh, they make a good substitute.
3. Asparagus: Adds a unique flavor and works well in stir-fries.
4. Bell Peppers: Add color and sweetness to the dish.
5. Snow Peas: Provide a crisp texture and complement the flavors well.
6. Bok Choy: Adds a leafy green element to the dish.