Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Name: Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (sliced); 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ginger (minced); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish

Craving a quick and nutritious meal? Chicken and broccoli stir fry is the perfect solution! This dish combines tender chicken pieces and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, all cooked in just under 30 minutes. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 280 calories, 30g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. This is based on one person and provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Start by marinating the sliced chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well with the broccoli.
Drizzle oyster sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood version. Additionally, feel free to use other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

Serve this chicken and broccoli stir fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs well with a side of spring rolls or a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to consume it fresh for optimal texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can make it tough; cook just until no longer pink.
Using too much sauce can make the dish soggy; balance is key.
Not preheating the pan can lead to uneven cooking.
Skipping the marination step can result in bland chicken.
Overcrowding the skillet can cause steaming rather than stir-frying.

Helpful Tips

Slice the chicken against the grain for tenderness.
Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for efficiency.
Use high heat for a proper stir-fry.
Experiment with different sauces for varied flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used; just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding to the stir fry for best results.

What other proteins can I use?

Besides chicken, you can substitute with beef, shrimp, or even tempeh for a plant-based option.

How do I add more flavor?

You can enhance the flavor by adding chili flakes, sesame oil, or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the stir fry for heat.

Conclusion

Chicken and broccoli stir fry is a versatile, healthy dish that can be customized to your taste. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings while keeping dinner simple and delicious. Enjoy this delightful recipe on any busy weeknight!