Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a popular takeout dish that brings together tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This homemade version is healthier and easy to prepare in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The chicken is stir-fried until golden, while the broccoli remains bright green and crisp-tender. The sauce, made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly. Serve it over steamed rice for a balanced, flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of hoisin sauce, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let it sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Blanch the broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil, then blanch the broccoli florets for about 1-2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, chicken broth, rice vinegar, and sesame oil (if using).
- Stir-fry the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken to the pan, add the broccoli, and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli.
- Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice, and enjoy!
This dish is perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen.