Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry is a delightful way to bring the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right into your kitchen. Not only is it quick to make, but it also offers a healthy balance of protein and vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish stands out with its savory sauce and tender chicken, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates an irresistible taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with chicken and broccoli, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice or noodles, or customize it with your favorite veggies.
• Takeout Taste at Home: Enjoy the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine without leaving your home.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying as it allows for high heat and even cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps in quickly cutting the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast (cut into ¼ inch slices (about 2 chicken breasts))

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (if using fine salt, use a little less)
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ⅔ cup soy sauce (light sodium)
• ⅔ cup water
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2½ tablespoons cornstarch
• 1½ teaspoons toasted sesame oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 pound broccoli (cut into florets (about 1 crown))
• 1½ tablespoons garlic (minced (about 4 cloves))
• 1½ tablespoons ginger (minced (about a 1½ inch knob))

How to Make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with water, Shaoxing vinegar, Kosher salt, baking soda, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat evenly.
2. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken in batches if necessary. Cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove cooked chicken from the wok and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same wok, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add broccoli florets; stir-fry until tender but still crisp (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with broccoli.
2. Pour in the sauce; stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Now you have a delicious plate of Chinese Chicken and Broccoli ready to serve! Enjoy it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that is sure to impress!

How to Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

This Chinese chicken and broccoli dish is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With White Rice

• Steamed White Rice – This classic pairing absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.

With Fried Rice

• Egg Fried Rice – A flavorful alternative that adds richness and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps – For a fresh twist, serve the stir fry in crisp lettuce leaves for a light option.

Over Noodles

• Lo Mein or Chow Mein – Tossing it with noodles makes for a hearty meal that’s both filling and delicious.

As Meal Prep

• Meal Prep Containers – Divide into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

With Extra Sauce

• Additional Soy Sauce – Serve on the side for those who prefer an extra kick of flavor.

How to Perfect Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

To make your Chinese chicken and broccoli even better, consider these helpful tips that ensure a restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and chicken enhance flavor and texture in your stir fry.

• Marinate Chicken – Letting the chicken sit with salt, baking soda, and cornstarch for 15 minutes creates a tender texture.

• High Heat Cooking – Stir frying over high heat allows quick cooking, preserving nutrients and crunchiness in vegetables.

• Prep Before Cooking – Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Feel free to tweak soy sauce or sugar levels based on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your Chinese chicken and broccoli can enhance the meal’s flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice – A classic choice that complements stir fry perfectly; consider adding peas and carrots for color.

2. Egg Drop Soup – A light, comforting soup that pairs well with any stir-fry dish, adding warmth to your meal.

3. Spring Rolls – Crispy rolls filled with veggies provide a crunchy contrast to your main dish.

4. Chinese Cucumber Salad – A tangy salad that adds freshness; it balances out the richness of the stir fry.

5. Steamed Dumplings – These soft dumplings are perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from your plate.

6. Chow Mein Noodles – Serve as an alternative to rice; they soak up flavors beautifully while offering a nice bite.

7. Sesame Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with sesame seeds give an extra crunch.

8. Fried Tofu Bites – Crispy tofu is an excellent vegetarian option that pairs well with any stir fry dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chinese chicken and broccoli at home can be a rewarding experience. However, there are common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-season when adding soy sauce. Start with less and adjust to your taste.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is crucial for tenderizing the chicken. Don’t skip it; it helps achieve that takeout-style texture.
• Cutting uneven pieces: Ensure the chicken and broccoli are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps everything cook perfectly together.
• Not preparing sauce in advance: Prepare the sauce before you start cooking. This saves time and ensures you don’t rush through this important step.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be bright green and slightly crisp. Avoid mushy vegetables by monitoring the cooking time closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Chinese chicken and broccoli in an airtight container.
• item It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

• item Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for freezing.
• item Your stir fry can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• item Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring between each until hot.
• item Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with steamed white rice or egg fried rice for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe healthy?

Chinese chicken and broccoli is a healthy option, providing lean protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, making it a nutritious meal choice.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese chicken and broccoli recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or meal prep option, it fits perfectly into any schedule. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of homemade Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry, a delectable dish that brings your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only quick to whip up—taking less than 30 minutes—but it’s also a wholesome choice, combining tender chicken with nutrient-rich broccoli in a savory sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this stir fry is a family-friendly favorite that can be easily customized with additional vegetables or served over rice or noodles. Enjoy an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine without the hassle of dining out.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast
• 1 pound broccoli florets
• 1½ tablespoons minced garlic
• 1½ tablespoons minced ginger
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ⅔ cup soy sauce (light sodium)
• ⅔ cup water
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2½ tablespoons cornstarch
• 1½ teaspoons toasted sesame oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Marinate sliced chicken in water, Shaoxing vinegar, salt, baking soda, and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
2. Whisk together soy sauce, water, sugar, and cornstarch to create the sauce.
3. Stir-fry marinated chicken in a hot wok until browned; set aside.
4. Sauté minced garlic and ginger before adding broccoli; cook until tender-crisp.
5. Combine chicken and broccoli in the wok, pour in the sauce, and heat through for 2-3 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 100mg