Chicken and Broccoli is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a delightful crunch to your dinner table. Picture succulent chicken pieces nestled among vibrant green broccoli florets, all coated in a savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The aroma wafting from the kitchen will have your family gravitating toward the dining area like bees to honey.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I remember sitting at my grandmother’s table, feasting on her Chicken and Broccoli while she shared stories about her childhood. Now, I often whip up this recipe for quick weeknight dinners or lazy Sundays when I want something delicious but don’t feel like slaving away in the kitchen. grilled chicken burrito option Get ready for an explosion of flavor and a whole lot of love in every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken and Broccoli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- With its robust flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- The vibrant colors of this dish make it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy!
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or enjoy as is for a low-carb delight.
Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Opt for bright green florets that are firm to the touch; they should look so fresh they could audition for a vegetable commercial.
- Garlic Cloves: Use about 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic for that aromatic depth; avoid any shriveled ones unless you enjoy cooking with regret.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is your best friend here; it allows you to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Honey: This adds a sweet balance to the salty soy sauce; go for raw honey if you’re feeling fancy.
- Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil will give your dish that nutty aroma—like adding a hug from an Asian market.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Chop them into bite-sized pieces while you wait for the chicken party to begin.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some olive oil (or whatever oil you prefer). Once heated, toss in the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side) or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli
Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic (about those precious cloves we prepped earlier) and sauté until fragrant—around one minute should do it! Then add in the broccoli florets and cook them until bright green and tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Mix Up That Sauce
In a small bowl while your broccoli cooks, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil until well combined—this is where the magic happens! Pour this mixture over your sautéed broccoli.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with broccoli and sauce mixture. Stir everything gently together until well coated—let those flavors mingle like old friends at a reunion!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer everything onto plates or bowls and get ready for compliments! Drizzle with extra sesame oil if desired or sprinkle with sesame seeds for that extra touch of flair.
Enjoy this Chicken and Broccoli hot off the stove or let it cool down before storing leftovers—if there are any left!
With its delightful flavors and ease of preparation, this recipe is bound to become your new go-to weeknight favorite!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken and broccoli dish offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with chicken and broccoli, start by searing the chicken to lock in those juices. While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli until tender yet crisp. Toss them together with your favorite sauce for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chicken and broccoli by swapping out proteins like shrimp or tofu, adding spices like ginger or chili flakes, or mixing in other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or skillet on low heat to maintain that delicious texture without overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor; frozen can get mushy.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this helps it brown evenly.
- Finally, let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
When I first made this chicken and broccoli dish for my family, they couldn’t stop raving about it! My brother even declared it better than his favorite takeout, and let me tell you—he’s a tough critic!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Chicken and Broccoli?
The best way to prepare Chicken and Broccoli is by stir-frying. Start with bite-sized pieces of chicken, sauté them in a hot pan with olive oil until golden brown. Add broccoli florets and continue cooking until they are tender yet crisp. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a savory flavor. This method keeps the chicken juicy and the broccoli vibrant.
Can I use frozen Chicken and Broccoli for recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen Chicken and Broccoli for recipes. Just ensure to thaw them properly before cooking. Frozen vegetables often retain their nutrients and can be convenient for quick meals. Adjust the cooking time as needed since frozen ingredients may require a few extra minutes to cook thoroughly. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.
How can I make Chicken and Broccoli healthier?
To make Chicken and Broccoli healthier, consider using lean cuts of chicken breast without skin. Opt for steaming or grilling instead of frying to reduce fat content. Additionally, you can replace heavy sauces with lighter alternatives like low-sodium soy sauce or homemade marinades made from lemon juice and herbs.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Chicken and Broccoli?
Chicken and Broccoli pairs well with several side dishes. You might consider serving it over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber. Steamed jasmine rice also complements this dish nicely. broccoli salad for a side A simple garden salad or roasted sweet potatoes can enhance your meal while adding variety to your plate.
Conclusion for Chicken and Broccoli:
In conclusion, Chicken and Broccoli is a versatile dish that combines flavor with nutrition. By preparing it through stir-frying or grilling, you preserve its health benefits while enjoying a delicious meal. Using fresh ingredients ensures optimal taste, while various preparation methods cater to different dietary needs. This dish offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, making it an ideal choice for any dinner table.
Chicken and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting meal that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a deliciously savory sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized to suit your taste. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying dinner that your family will love, or enjoy it on its own for a nutritious low-carb option.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side) or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add broccoli florets; cook until bright green and tender-crisp (3-4 minutes).
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour over the cooked broccoli.
- Return chicken to the skillet, mixing everything gently until well coated in the sauce.
- Serve hot, optionally drizzling with extra sesame oil or sprinkling with sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





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