Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

The aroma of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli simmering together fills the kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table. Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a quick yet satisfying meal for busy weeknights. The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a rich glaze that perfectly coats the chicken and broccoli.

This recipe is perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone looking for a wholesome meal with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, and leftovers can be stored for a few days in the fridge, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The soy glaze adds a deep, savory flavor that enhances every bite.
• Cooking the chicken quickly ensures it stays juicy and tender.
• Vibrant broccoli florets add a satisfying crunch and nutritional benefits.
• It’s a one-pan meal, simplifying cleanup and preparation.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a quick and delicious meal:

For the Soy Glaze

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Chicken

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper

For the Vegetables

• ¾ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger (packed)
• 12 oz broccoli florets (or 3 cups)

For Garnishing

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Maple syrup can be replaced with honey.
• Use chicken thighs for extra moisture.
• Any hearty green can replace broccoli.
• Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot.

How to Make It

This simple dish comes together in just a few steps.

Create the Soy Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable broth, maple syrup, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. This glaze will enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with kosher salt and coarse black pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Put it All Together

Pour the prepared soy glaze over the chicken and vegetables. Add the broccoli florets and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the glaze has thickened, about 4-6 minutes.

Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: No, the broccoli may become mushy.
Reheat: In a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Slice the chicken thinly for quicker cooking.
• Sauté the vegetables until just tender for optimal texture.
• Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by varying the maple syrup amount.
• Use fresh broccoli for the best color and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed white rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside sesame noodles for a delightful fusion.
• Enjoy as meal prep for easy weekday lunches.