The aroma of sizzling chicken and vibrant broccoli transports me straight to my favorite corner Chinese takeout. This Quick & Easy Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry captures that irresistible essence without the wait or delivery fees. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave comfort and flavor. The marinated chicken is super tender, while the fresh broccoli stays crisp and nutritious—a winning combination for your whole family. Plus, with a rich sauce that strikes a balance between sweet and savory, you’ll feel like a culinary superstar right in your kitchen. Ready to indulge in a homemade taste of takeout magic? Let’s dive in!
Why is this stir fry a weeknight winner?
Simplicity makes it a breeze to prepare, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. Flavorful marinated chicken enhances every bite, perfectly complemented by crunchy broccoli. Versatile enough to switch up proteins or veggies, it caters to your family’s preferences effortlessly. Affordable ingredients mean you won’t break the bank, and it brings a satisfying taste of takeout home. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to impress. For more easy meal ideas, check out Thai Baked Chicken or Harissa Chicken.
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
• Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast – This is your main protein source, ensuring a tender bite; alternatively, try chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Shaoxing Cooking Wine – Adds depth to the chicken’s flavor; you can substitute dry sherry or skip it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste or use a finer salt if preferred.
• Baking Soda – Helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring it remains juicy during cooking.
• Cornstarch – Works magic for marinating the chicken, enhancing its texture and thickening your sauce; swap with potato starch if necessary.
• Neutral Oil (e.g., vegetable, canola) – Keeps the chicken from sticking during cooking.
For the Stir Fry Sauce
• Soy Sauce (low sodium) – Forms the base of your flavorful sauce, contributing that signature umami twist; coconut aminos can be a great gluten-free substitute.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the savory soy sauce, adding just the right touch of sweetness to the dish.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty flavor; regular sesame oil can be used, but it won’t have the same rich taste.
For the Veggies
• Broccoli Florets – Adds a delightful crunch and packs in nutrition; feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
• Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with fragrant aroma; garlic powder can work as an alternative in a pinch.
• Ginger (minced) – Provides warmth and spice; if fresh ginger isn’t on hand, ground ginger can do the job.
Unlock the simple joy of homemade Chinese Chicken and Broccoli—a nourishing taste of takeout that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick & Easy Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by slicing your skinless boneless chicken breast into thin strips for even cooking. In a bowl, combine the chicken with water, shaoxing cooking wine, kosher salt, baking soda, cornstarch, and a splash of neutral oil. Mix thoroughly and allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring the flavors are absorbed and the chicken becomes tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together in a separate bowl the low sodium soy sauce, a little water, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and toasted sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This sauce will provide the deliciously rich flavor for your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry. Set it aside, ready for use in the next step.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and gently add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, depending on how tender you prefer your broccoli. Once done, drain the broccoli and plunge it into an ice bath momentarily. This stops the cooking process and helps retain the vibrant green color, giving your dish a fresh appearance.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a generous drizzle of neutral oil in a wok or a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken strips. Stir fry for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside, allowing it to rest before combining it with the sauce.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and in the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for approximately 30 seconds, or until the garlic turns fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as that can turn the flavor bitter. This step enhances the aromatics, creating a flavorful base for your Quick & Easy Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry.
Step 6: Add Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Increase the heat slightly and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken and is bubbling. This step allows the flavors to meld together and create a luscious coating that will envelop the chicken and broccoli.
Step 7: Combine
Return the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli to the pan, tossing everything together carefully. Stir to ensure each piece is generously coated in the glossy sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional minute, letting the flavors blend beautifully. Once everything is heated through, your delightful Chinese Chicken and Broccoli stir fry is ready to be served hot!
Make Ahead Options
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance (mix with water, shaoxing cooking wine, salt, baking soda, cornstarch, and oil) for maximum flavor. Additionally, you can blanch the broccoli and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir fry the marinated chicken until fully cooked, sauté the garlic and ginger, and combine everything with the sauce to complete the dish. This way, every bite remains just as delicious and fresh as a newly cooked stir fry!
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Variations
Feel free to personalize this dish and make it a unique masterpiece that fits your taste preferences!
- Protein Swap: Use beef or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein punch. This simple switch creates a whole new flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for a vibrant and colorful veggie mix. It not only enhances the dish but provides additional nutrients too. Think of the joyful crunch with every bite!
- Heat It Up: Incorporate sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce for a spicy twist. This can brighten up your stir fry with an exciting kick!
- Crispy Surprise: For extra texture, toss in some water chestnuts or cashews right before serving. It adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken and broccoli beautifully.
- Sweet and Sour: Replace granulated sugar with pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy influence, reminiscent of sweet and sour dishes. It takes your taste buds on a fun adventure!
- Sauce Fun: Experiment with the sauce by using hoisin sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, richer flavor. This change adds an exciting new dimension to your homemade takeout.
- Add Noodles: Serve the stir fry over a bed of noodles instead of rice. This transforms the dish into a comforting noodle stir fry, making it even more filling and delightful.
For additional scrumptious ideas, don’t hesitate to explore our White Chicken Lasagna Soup or Caramelised Soy Chicken. Your culinary adventure awaits!
Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures the chicken stays juicy.
Freezer: If you want to freeze any extra stir fry, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out the chicken.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Chinese Chicken and Broccoli out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain flavor.
What to Serve with Quick & Easy Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Transform your meal into an unforgettable feast with these delicious pairings that enhance the joy of your homemade stir fry.
- Steamed White Rice: A classic companion that soaks up the savory sauce, bringing harmony to every bite.
- Fried Rice: This flavorful alternative adds a delightful texture and a hint of egginess that complements the dish beautifully.
- Simple Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage and carrots drizzled in a sweet vinaigrette refresh your palate, balancing the rich stir fry.
- Garlic Noodles: Their rich and buttery essence envelops your taste buds, providing a luscious base for the stir fry.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: Add some crunch! The flaky shell and warm filling are a cherished addition to your Asian-inspired dinner.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Fresh, crisp cucumbers tossed with sesame oil create a refreshing contrast to the warm stir fry.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet and creamy, this dessert rounds out your meal with a tropical twist that leaves you smiling.
- Jasmine Tea: Aromatic and soothing, this beverage sets a calming tone while perfectly complementing the umami flavors of your dish.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing palate cleanser with a splash of lemon enhances your meal without overpowering the main flavors.
Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli
- Marination Time Matters: Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes enhances tenderness and flavor; don’t rush this step for the best results.
- Uniform Cuts: Slice the chicken into even strips for consistent cooking; this prevents some pieces from being undercooked or dry.
- Thickening Tricks: If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add 1 to 2 teaspoons more cornstarch while whisking to avoid lumps in your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli.
- Check Broccoli: Keep an eye on the blanching time! Overcooked broccoli loses its bright color and crunch, so aim for that vibrant green.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper or chili sauce to the stir fry sauce for a spicy twist.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently to keep the chicken moist, maybe adding a splash of water if needed.
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this stir fry?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for skinless boneless breasts that are firm and have a pink color without any dark spots. For a richer flavor, consider chicken thighs as they tend to stay moist during cooking.
How should I store leftovers after making the stir fry?
Very important! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the chicken tender and the broccoli crunchy. If you need to reheat it, microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.
Can I freeze Chinese Chicken and Broccoli?
Absolutely! If you want to save it for later, transfer your stir fry to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, you can create a quick cornstarch slurry. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water until smooth, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired thickness.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very much so! You can easily customize the ingredients based on dietary needs. For example, if someone is gluten-sensitive, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos. Always check labels for allergens to keep everyone safe and happy at the table!
Savory Chinese Chicken and Broccoli for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and marinate with water, Shaoxing cooking wine, kosher salt, baking soda, cornstarch, and a splash of neutral oil for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Whisk together the soy sauce, a little water, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and toasted sesame oil in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Boil water and blanch broccoli florets for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, then plunge into an ice bath.
- Heat neutral oil in a wok over medium-high heat, then stir fry the marinated chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the sauce into the pan, bring to a simmer, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
- Return the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli to the pan, tossing everything to coat evenly and cook for an additional minute.
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