Hearty Chicken and Broccoli Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a recipe that's both nutritious and satisfying, this Hearty Chicken and Broccoli Delight is just what you need. With juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, it's a quick weeknight meal that's sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients for Hearty Chicken and Broccoli Delight

Chicken breasts provide lean protein and are easy to cook quickly. By cutting them into bite-sized pieces, they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Broccoli florets add a nutritious crunch with their bright green freshness. Olive oil is used to sauté and bring out the flavors of the chicken. Garlic and ginger are the backbone of flavor here, giving the dish an aromatic depth that wakes up your taste buds. The soy sauce contributes a salty, umami-rich base to the sauce, while the chicken broth adds moisture and a subtle savory layer. Cornstarch is our thickener, ensuring the sauce clings to every bite. Finally, a sprinkle of sesame seeds brings a nutty finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 15 minutes before cooking.
  • Use fresh ginger instead of powdered for a more vibrant flavor.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, just add a bit more cornstarch in the slurry.
  • To save time, buy pre-cut broccoli florets from the store.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. Alternatively, serve it over quinoa for a protein-packed option or alongside a simple salad for a light and refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.
What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
You can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Hearty Chicken and Broccoli Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook faster and ensures every bite is well-seasoned. Sprinkle them with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Sauté them for about 6-8 minutes until they're golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside for a moment.

In the same skillet, you'll want to add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook these for roughly a minute until they're fragrant — this is when their aromas will be most potent. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and let them cook for 3-4 minutes. You're looking for them to turn a bright green and become tender-crisp.

While the broccoli is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch in a small bowl until it's smooth and lump-free. Once your broccoli is ready, return the chicken to the skillet and pour the soy sauce mixture over everything. Stir well so that the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which will allow the sauce to thicken up nicely. Just before serving, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top for a bit of texture and visual appeal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Loaded with protein and greens for a balanced meal.
  • Flavorful without being overpowering, thanks to the ginger and garlic.
  • Minimal cleanup since it's all done in one skillet.

Ingredients

2 boneless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes or until bright green and tender-crisp.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
9. Stir to coat all ingredients evenly and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
10. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

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