Name: Chinese Chicken Broccoli: Amazing 30-Min Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, minced; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional); 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil; Cooked rice, for serving

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Chinese Chicken Broccoli has been my go-to for busy weeknights since I first tried it years ago. The aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling in the wok, combined with the vibrant green of the broccoli and tender chicken, is just intoxicating. It’s so much more satisfying than a frozen meal, and honestly, just as quick as grabbing takeout. I often pair it with a quick tomato cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast, making it a complete meal perfect for tomato cucumber salad for lunch or dinner. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Broccoli

Incredibly savory and satisfying flavor profile.
Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
A wonderfully healthy tomato cucumber salad alternative for a balanced meal.
Budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find.
A family-favorite that even picky eaters enjoy.
Packed with protein and fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost.
It’s a lighter option compared to heavier stir-fries, offering a great way to enjoy a healthy tomato cucumber salad alongside.
Versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Broccoli

Gathering these tomato cucumber salad ingredients is a breeze and sets you up for a fantastic meal. Here’s what you’ll need for our delicious Chinese chicken and broccoli:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips – this is the star protein, keeping it lean and tender.
2 cups broccoli florets – for that essential crisp-tender texture and vibrant color.
2 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic foundation of our sauce.
1 inch piece of ginger, minced – adds a warm, zesty kick that’s classic in Chinese cooking.
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce – the savory base of our stir-fry sauce.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce – brings a rich, umami depth to the sauce.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – this is key for thickening our sauce to a lovely consistency.
1 tablespoon water – mixed with cornstarch to create our thickening slurry.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional) – adds a touch of brightness if you like a little tang.
1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – balances the savory and tangy flavors perfectly.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil – for stir-frying, adding a subtle nutty note.
Cooked rice, for serving – the perfect bed for our flavorful chicken and broccoli.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Broccoli

This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal. It’s almost as easy as preparing a fresh tomato cucumber salad!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a moment to appreciate the fresh ingredients you’ve gathered.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced chicken with the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor.
Step 3: Bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for just 2-3 minutes. You want them to turn bright green and become slightly tender, but still have a nice crispness. Drain them well and set aside.
Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 5: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they release their wonderful aroma – that fragrant smell is your cue!
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the blanched broccoli. Stir everything together to combine and let it heat through for a minute.
Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until you have a smooth slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. This is a key part of how to make tomato cucumber salad and other stir-fries – it thickens the sauce beautifully. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the chicken and broccoli evenly and has a glossy finish.
Step 8: If you like a little extra tang, stir in the rice vinegar and sugar now. This step truly elevates the dish, much like adding a zesty dressing to a simple cucumber tomato salad.
Step 9: Serve your delicious Chinese chicken and broccoli immediately over a bed of fluffy, cooked rice. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory chicken, crisp broccoli, and that irresistible ginger-garlic sauce!

Pro Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken Broccoli

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these tips have seriously leveled up my stir-fry game. They’re simple but make a huge difference!

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly instead of steaming.
Prep everything first: Stir-frying is fast, so have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go. It’s like having your mise en place ready for a fresh tomato cucumber salad.
Adjust the sauce: Taste the sauce before thickening. If it’s too salty, add a splash more water or a pinch of sugar. If it needs more depth, a bit more oyster sauce works wonders.
Broccoli texture: Blanching the broccoli ensures it’s tender-crisp and bright green, preventing it from becoming mushy in the hot wok.

What’s the secret to perfect Chinese Chicken Broccoli?

The secret is in the sauce and the cooking technique. A good balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and aromatics like garlic and ginger is key. Achieving that glossy, slightly thickened sauce with perfectly cooked chicken and crisp broccoli is what makes it as satisfying as the best tomato cucumber salad.

Can I make Chinese Chicken Broccoli ahead of time?

You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the chicken, chop the veggies, and mince the aromatics. You can even mix the sauce ingredients. Just store them separately in the fridge. Blanching the broccoli can also be done a day in advance. However, I recommend cooking the chicken and combining everything just before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chinese Chicken Broccoli?

The most common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which leads to steamed, not seared, chicken. Another pitfall is adding the cornstarch slurry too early or too late; aim for the end of the cooking process. Lastly, make sure your wok or skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients for that signature stir-fry sizzle.

Best Ways to Serve Chinese Chicken Broccoli

This flavorful Chinese chicken and broccoli is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. It’s a perfect main dish, but also shines as a hearty component of a larger meal. For a complete and balanced dinner, I love serving it over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious sauce beautifully.

If you’re looking for a refreshing contrast, a side dish tomato cucumber salad is an absolute winner. Its crisp, cool flavors cut through the richness of the stir-fry perfectly, creating a delightful balance on your plate. Other great pairings include steamed rice noodles, brown rice, or even a simple quinoa for a protein boost. Don’t forget a drizzle of chili oil if you like a bit of heat!

Nutrition Facts for Chinese Chicken Broccoli

Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, much like the variations found in a healthy tomato cucumber salad.

How to Store and Reheat Chinese Chicken Broccoli

This delicious Chinese chicken and broccoli is fantastic for meal prep! Once it’s cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour, transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. I find that glass containers work best for reheating. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It’s almost as easy as storing a simple cucumber tomato salad. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Remember to label and date them!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, there are a couple of ways to reheat it. The best method is on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a tablespoon of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent drying. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Both methods work wonderfully to bring back that fresh, savory flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Chicken Broccoli

What is Chinese Chicken Broccoli?

Chinese Chicken Broccoli is a classic stir-fry dish featuring tender pieces of chicken and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory ginger-garlic sauce. It’s a popular, quick, and healthy meal that’s a staple in many homes because it’s so adaptable. Think of it as a flavorful, satisfying main course, much like how a fresh tomato cucumber salad is a refreshing side.

Can I substitute the chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap the chicken for beef strips, shrimp, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will cook a bit differently, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. It’s a great way to customize your meal, similar to how you might vary the ingredients in a tomato cucumber salad.

What makes this Chinese Chicken Broccoli recipe healthy?

This dish is considered healthy because it’s packed with lean protein from the chicken and nutrients from the broccoli. The sauce uses low-sodium soy sauce and is thickened with cornstarch, which is a healthier alternative to heavy creams or fats. It’s a lighter option compared to many takeout meals, and pairing it with a side like a healthy tomato cucumber salad further boosts its nutritional profile, making it a well-rounded meal.

What is tomato cucumber salad?

A tomato cucumber salad is a simple, refreshing salad typically made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and often onions, dressed with a vinaigrette. It’s a popular side dish, especially during warmer months, because of its cool, crisp texture and bright flavors. It complements many main dishes, including stir-fries like our Chinese Chicken Broccoli, providing a lovely contrast.

Variations of Chinese Chicken Broccoli You Can Try

This Chinese Chicken Broccoli recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. It’s as versatile as a tomato cucumber salad is with its many possible variations!

Gluten-Free: Swap the low-sodium soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free if using.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish. This adds a nice warmth, much like a spicy dressing on a salad.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the chicken with firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or use a plant-based chicken substitute. For a vegan version, ensure your oyster sauce is replaced with a vegetarian mushroom-based alternative.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to bulk up this dish with other crisp vegetables. Sliced bell peppers (any color), carrots cut into thin matchsticks, snap peas, or mushrooms all make excellent additions and contribute to a delightful mix of textures, similar to the diverse ingredients found in a varied tomato cucumber salad.