There’s something utterly satisfying about the crisp crunch of fresh broccoli paired with tender chicken, all enveloped in a sweet and savory soy glaze. When I first experimented with this recipe, I was seeking a way to escape the mundane takeout routine that had taken over our weeknights. The result? A delightful Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry that was not only quick and easy to whip up but also packed with flavor.
As the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger danced through my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. This dish comes together in mere minutes and showcases the versatility of simple ingredients, transforming them into a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a homemade dinner, this recipe is a heartfelt reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to come from a carton. Grab your skillet and let’s dive into a flavor-packed adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Chinese Chicken and Broccoli a must-try?
Deliciously Balanced: This stir fry brings together tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a sweet soy glaze that perfectly balances flavors.
Quick to Prepare: In just minutes, you can have a wholesome meal on the table, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
Versatile Option: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.
Health-Conscious: Using low-sodium ingredients keeps guilt at bay while still delivering on taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a familiar dish that appeals to both kids and adults, bringing everyone together for a satisfying dinner.
For a full experience, consider pairing it with rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal, or check out my guide on incredible stir-fry techniques to elevate your cooking game.
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Ingredients
• Explore the key elements for a flavorful dish!
For the Soy Glaze
- Low-sodium soy sauce – provides a savory depth without excessive saltiness.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth – enhances flavor while keeping it light and healthy.
- Pure maple syrup – adds a touch of natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the soy.
- Sesame oil – imparts a lovely nutty aroma, elevating the entire dish.
- Cornstarch – acts as a thickening agent for the perfect glaze consistency.
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breast – lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully when sliced thinly.
- Kosher salt – a simple seasoning that enhances the chicken’s deliciousness.
- Coarse black pepper – adds just the right kick to this savory stir fry.
For the Vegetables
- Onion – finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic cloves – enhances the aroma, bringing that comforting warmth.
- Finely chopped ginger – adds a zesty, fragrant note, perfectly complementing the soy glaze.
- Broccoli florets – such a wonderful crunch, rich in nutrients and color, making it essential to this Chinese chicken and broccoli recipe.
How to Make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
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Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, vegetable broth, pure maple syrup, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This soy glaze will be the star of your dish, so mix well until smooth.
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Heat the Pan: Warm up olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced chicken breast and sprinkle with kosher salt. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger into the pan. Stir-fry everything together until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and add coarse black pepper. Stir-fry until the broccoli is tender-crisp,, which should take around 3-4 minutes. You want that vibrant green!
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Add the Glaze: Pour the soy glaze over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Optional: Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and adapt it to your family’s taste preferences!
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Chicken Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp or firm tofu. Both options absorb the soy glaze beautifully!
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Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful twist and extra crunch. Just stir-fry them along with the broccoli.
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Heat It Up: Include red pepper flakes or sriracha to give your dish a spicy kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
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Nutty & Crunchy: Toss in toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts before serving. They add wonderful flavor and texture contrasts!
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Citrusy Burst: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the stir fry just before serving. It brightens up the dish and gives a zesty finish.
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Herbal Infusion: Finish with fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of green that elevates the dish with fresh herbal notes.
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Rice Variations: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or try brown rice for a nutty flavor and added health benefits.
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Creamy Deconstruction: Whisk a tablespoon of peanut butter into the glaze for a creamy, peanut-infused flavor adventure.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pan.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. Stir often for even heating.
Leftover Ideas: Mix leftover Chinese Chicken and Broccoli with cooked rice or noodles for a delicious new meal the next day!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the soy glaze for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (onion, garlic, ginger, and broccoli) up to 3 days ahead and store them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the olive oil, stir-fry the marinated chicken until browned, and add the prepped vegetables and glaze. This way, you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal that’s ready with minimal effort and just as flavorful!
Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
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Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and slice the chicken beforehand. This makes cooking quicker and easier, especially on busy nights.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep the broccoli tender-crisp by avoiding overcooking. Aim for vibrant green and slight crunch; it enhances the dish immensely.
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Customize Your Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a variation. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to this Chinese chicken and broccoli stir fry.
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Right Heat: Ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding ingredients. A hot pan helps achieve that wonderful sear and prevents sticking.
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Revive Leftovers: If you have leftovers, mix in some cooked rice or noodles for a lunch that tastes brand new!
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Sauce Consistency: If your glaze seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer, as cornstarch needs a moment to thicken perfectly.
What to Serve with Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that complement this savory stir-fry perfectly.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light and fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up the rich soy glaze, creating a harmonious bite.
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Garlic Noodles: These beautifully flavored noodles add a comforting touch while balancing the dish’s savory notes with each twirl.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: With a satisfying crunch, these crispy delights make for a fantastic appetizer, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad offers a crisp, bright contrast to the warm stir fry, adding a burst of freshness with every bite.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting side that complements the umami richness of the stir fry.
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Chilled Sake: This smooth Japanese rice wine enhances the flavors of your meal, making for a sophisticated and enjoyable dining experience.
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Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with sesame oil, these green beans bring a nutty crunch that beautifully complements the stir fry’s textures.
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Chocolate Asian Pear Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with this delightful dessert, combining rich chocolate and the freshness of pears for a perfect finish.
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right broccoli?
Absolutely! Look for fresh broccoli heads that are vibrant green and firm to the touch. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as these indicate over-ripeness. The florets should be tightly closed, which signifies freshness, while stems should feel crisp.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed through for the best taste and texture.
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Can I freeze Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
Yes! To freeze, place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the container in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
What if my soy glaze is too thick?
If you find the soy glaze is too thick and clumpy, don’t worry! Just add a splash of low-sodium vegetable broth or water to the pan and stir until you’ve achieved your desired consistency. It’s excellent for making sure your dish is well-coated without being overly sticky.
Is this recipe suitable for those with soy allergies?
Not ideal for soy allergies! You can substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, both of which mimic the flavor without the soy. Be sure to double-check all ingredients like broth for potential allergens. Always adjust for taste!
How can I add more vegetables to my stir fry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots alongside the broccoli for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly so all veggies stay tender-crisp—around 2-3 minutes for traditional stir fry vegetables works great!
Savory Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, vegetable broth, pure maple syrup, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Warm up olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and sprinkle with kosher salt. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and add coarse black pepper. Stir-fry until the broccoli is tender-crisp, around 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the soy glaze over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional minute.
