Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy and nutritious Chicken and Broccoli recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner. Enjoy a wholesome meal that is both delicious and satisfying, making it a staple in your home cooking arsenal.
Chicken and Broccoli is not just a dish; it's a celebration of flavors that come together in perfect harmony. This recipe highlights the tenderness of chicken paired with the crunch of broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce that elevates the entire meal.
A Complete Meal
Chicken and broccoli is not only delicious, but it also offers a complete meal that is packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a rich source of protein, which helps in muscle building and recovery. Broccoli, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, containing significant amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Together, they create a wholesome dish that can contribute positively to your health.
This dish is versatile and can easily adapt to your dietary needs. If you're looking to lower the carbohydrates, you can serve it alone or alongside a light salad. For those who enjoy heartiness, pairing it with brown rice or whole-grain noodles adds more fiber and sustenance to your meal, making it even more satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the great advantages of this Chicken and Broccoli recipe is its suitability for meal prepping. You can easily double the batch and store leftovers for up to four days in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Meal prep not only saves time but also encourages healthier eating habits by allowing you to have wholesome meals ready to go. Portion them into containers with your choice of carbohydrates for an all-in-one nutritious meal you can grab on the way out.
Customization Options
This Chicken and Broccoli recipe is highly customizable based on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For those who love a bit of spice, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp to accommodate different diets, ensuring everyone at the table finds something they enjoy.
You can also mix in additional vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to add a vibrant touch and even more nutrients. The possibilities are endless, making this dish perfect for anyone who loves to experiment in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For Chicken and Broccoli
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Cooking Steps
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still crisp.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and honey. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Chicken and Broccoli, consider offering it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or whole grain quinoa for a nutritious twist. If you prefer noodles, opt for whole wheat or rice noodles, which soak up the savory sauce beautifully. Garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions adds both flavor and a beautiful presentation.
To turn this into a fuller meal, pair it with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients. This ensures your meal is not only flavorful but visually appealing as well.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness and flavor, store your leftover Chicken and Broccoli in an airtight container. This helps in retaining moisture and prevents the dish from drying out in the fridge. If you plan to keep it for more than a few days, consider freezing portions for convenience.
When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. This method will help maintain the chicken's tenderness and the broccoli's crispness, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as the first.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken and Broccoli
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy and nutritious Chicken and Broccoli recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner. Enjoy a wholesome meal that is both delicious and satisfying, making it a staple in your home cooking arsenal.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For Chicken and Broccoli
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender but still crisp.
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and honey. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 10g