Introduction
Asian-inspired dishes have become a favorite for many due to their vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. This Asian Chicken with Broccoli recipe combines tender chicken with crisp broccoli and a savory sauce that packs a punch. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal to serve your family, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can make this flavorful dish with just a few ingredients, a little bit of prep time, and a delicious result.
Ingredients for Asian Chicken with Broccoli
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips (about 450 grams)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (about 250 grams)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients will provide the right balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors that make this dish irresistible. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a wonderful sauce that coats the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
Stir the ingredients together until the cornstarch dissolves completely and the sauce has a smooth consistency. Set the sauce aside for later use.
This sauce is the key to bringing everything together. The soy sauce provides the salty umami flavor, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden and is fully cooked through.
When the chicken is ready, remove it from the pan and set it aside. This will give you space to cook the broccoli and other aromatics, while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the broccoli florets, cooking for 3-4 minutes, and stir frequently to ensure they are evenly cooked. The broccoli should become tender-crisp, which adds a nice texture to the dish. You want the broccoli to retain its vibrant green color and slight crunch for the best experience.
Once the broccoli is ready, push it to one side of the pan. This gives you space to sauté the aromatics next.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the center of the skillet. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, or until they become fragrant. These two ingredients are the building blocks of flavor in many Asian dishes, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste of the meal.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring it together with the broccoli, garlic, and ginger. Now, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir everything well to ensure the sauce coats the chicken and broccoli evenly.
Let the dish cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy. The cornstarch in the sauce will help it thicken, so you’ll end up with a deliciously sticky coating that wraps around the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Both sesame seeds and green onions add a little crunch and extra flavor, enhancing the presentation of the dish.
Serve the Asian Chicken with Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal. You can also pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed dumplings for a full, satisfying dinner.
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is quite versatile. While broccoli works wonderfully, you can also use other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times to suit the vegetables you choose, ensuring they stay tender-crisp.
2. Can I substitute the chicken breast with another protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken breast with other proteins such as chicken thighs, tofu, or even shrimp. For tofu, use firm tofu, and make sure to press it beforehand to remove excess moisture. Adjust the cooking times for different proteins to ensure they’re cooked through.
3. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce. There are many great alternatives available in most supermarkets or health food stores.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring the sauce back to life.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. You can chop the chicken, vegetables, and prepare the sauce a day in advance, storing them in separate containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps and enjoy!
Conclusion
Asian Chicken with Broccoli is an easy, flavorful, and healthy meal that combines the goodness of lean chicken and fresh vegetables. With a rich and savory sauce, this dish brings all the elements of a perfect dinner – it’s quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, making it your own.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving something light and delicious, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this popular Asian-inspired dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy this tasty, vibrant meal with rice, noodles, or just as it is!