Quick, tasty, and a little bit special, Sautéed Chicken and Broccoli Delight is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli with a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Start with 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast for a lean protein that's easy to cook and absorbs flavors well. The 2 cups broccoli florets add a nutritious, crunchy contrast and a pop of color. Use 2 tbsp vegetable oil for sautéing because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Garlic and fresh ginger (2 cloves and 1 tbsp, respectively) are the aromatics that elevate the dish with their distinctive, fresh flavors. The 1/4 cup soy sauce and 2 tbsp oyster sauce create a savory, umami-rich foundation for the sauce, while 1 tbsp cornstarch thickens it to a glossy finish. 1/4 cup chicken broth adds depth, and 1 tbsp sesame oil infuses a nutty aroma. Finish the sauce with 1 tsp sugar to balance the flavors and 1/4 tsp black pepper for a hint of spice.
This dish is delightful served over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. Alternatively, toss it with some cooked rice noodles or quinoa for a different texture. A side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad would add a refreshing contrast to the meal.
First, let's prepare the sauce. Grab a medium-sized bowl and mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until the cornstarch dissolves completely.
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken breast. Sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's golden brown and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, but be careful not to let them burn. Now, toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes. You're looking for them to turn bright green and become tender-crisp.
With the broccoli just right, return the chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss to coat the chicken and broccoli evenly. Allow it all to heat through for another minute or two, and then you’re ready to serve.