This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry is a delightful dish that will transport your taste buds straight to your favorite Chinese restaurant. Perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger creates a deliciously rich sauce that enhances the chicken and broccoli.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, this dish is a nutritious choice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
• Homemade Takeout Taste: Enjoy the flavors of your favorite takeout without leaving home or spending too much money.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wok provides even heat distribution, making it perfect for stir-frying quickly while preserving the crispness of vegetables.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for safe and efficient chopping of ingredients like chicken and broccoli.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your sauce has the perfect balance of flavors.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

• 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)
• 1½ tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1½ tablespoons ginger (minced)

How to Make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine water, Shaoxing cooking apple vinegar, Kosher salt, baking soda, and cornstarch.
2. Add sliced chicken breast to the mixture. Mix well to coat evenly. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In another bowl, mix together soy sauce, water, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook until browned on both sides; about 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Broccoli and Combine

1. In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry until bright green and slightly tender; about 3-4 minutes.
3. Return cooked chicken to the pan along with prepared sauce. Stir well and cook until everything is heated through and sauce thickens; about 2-3 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese Chicken and Broccoli served over rice or noodles!

How to Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Serving Chinese chicken and broccoli can elevate any meal. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.

With White Rice

• A classic option that absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly, providing a hearty base to the meal.

As a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken and broccoli, offering a fun and healthy way to enjoy leftovers.

Over Noodles

• Serve the stir fry over cooked rice noodles or egg noodles for a filling and satisfying dish.

With Cauliflower Rice

• For a lower-carb alternative, serve your chicken and broccoli over cauliflower rice, which adds texture without the extra carbs.

In a Salad

• Add chilled chicken and broccoli to mixed greens for a refreshing salad. Drizzle with sesame dressing for added flavor.

How to Perfect Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Chinese chicken and broccoli, consider these simple tips:

• Marinate the Chicken – Allowing the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and spices enhances its flavor before cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, ginger, and broccoli create vibrant flavors that dried or frozen alternatives cannot match.
• Stir-Fry Quickly – Cooking on high heat for a short time retains the crispness of the broccoli while keeping the chicken tender.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; feel free to add more soy sauce or sugar based on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
• Add Texture – Consider including cashews or peanuts for an added crunch that complements the dish beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your Chinese chicken and broccoli can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice – Quick fried rice filled with veggies makes for a delightful accompaniment.
2. Steamed Dumplings – Lightly steamed dumplings add another layer of flavor, perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
3. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast to the tender stir fry.
4. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort alongside your main dish, balancing flavors nicely.
5. Vegetable Stir Fry – A medley of seasonal vegetables stir-fried with garlic complements the main course beautifully.
6. Asian Slaw – A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can help you create a perfect Chinese chicken and broccoli dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using too much salt: Over-salting can ruin the dish’s flavor. Use Kosher salt and taste as you go to balance it properly.
• Not marinating the chicken: Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness. Allow the chicken to rest with your marinade for at least 10 minutes.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy. Stir-fry until bright green and tender-crisp for the best texture.
• Skipping the cornstarch coating: This step helps create a crispy texture. Coat the chicken in cornstarch before cooking for better results.
• Ignoring ingredient preparation: Properly chopping garlic, ginger, and broccoli ensures even cooking. Prep all ingredients before starting to cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chinese chicken and broccoli that may help you.

Can I use other vegetables in Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?

Yes! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

What can I serve with Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with white rice, egg fried rice, or quinoa for a delicious meal.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free.

Is Chinese Chicken and Broccoli healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese chicken and broccoli recipe is not only quick but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying it as a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, its versatility makes it an excellent choice. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce’s sweetness according to your taste!

Print

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

---

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

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir-fry, a dish that brings the taste of your favorite Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this quick and easy recipe is bursting with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce that will impress everyone. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a nutritious meal packed with protein and vitamins. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that feels like takeout without the extra cost. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients in this fuss-free recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon 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
• 1 pound broccoli florets
• 1½ tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1½ tablespoons ginger (minced)

---

Instructions

1. Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix water, apple vinegar, Kosher salt, baking soda, and cornstarch. Add sliced chicken and coat well; let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare sauce: Combine soy sauce, water, sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a separate bowl; mix until smooth.
3. Stir-fry chicken: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned on both sides (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from pan.
4. Cook vegetables: In the same pan, stir-fry minced garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add broccoli florets and cook until bright green (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Combine: Return chicken to the pan with the prepared sauce; stir well and cook until heated through and sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by varying the amount of sugar based on personal preference. For crunchiness, consider adding cashews or peanuts before serving.