Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Recipe - Rich Flavors of China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a classic dish that combines tender chicken with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This recipe is a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious meal that can be made in just a few simple steps.

History

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China, where it was created as a way to showcase the fresh flavors of chicken and broccoli. Over time, the dish has become a staple in Chinese cuisine and has been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and lightly pounded
1 head of broccoli, cut up
3 tbsp of minced ginger
3 tbsp of minced garlic
0.5 cup of chopped scallions
2 tsp of safflower oil
1 tsp of sesame oil
0.5 cup of low sodium soy sauce
1 cup of dehydrated shiitake mushrooms
2 cups of water
2 tbsp of cornstarch

How to prepare

Soak the shiitake mushrooms in a bowl of warm water until they become pliable and soft, for about 20 minutes.
Remove the mushrooms, strain the soaking water through a sieve or cheesecloth, and set it aside.
Slice the mushrooms and keep them aside.
Slice the chicken into thin pieces and coat them with 1 tbsp of soy sauce, sesame oil, and 2 tbsp of cornstarch.
Allow the chicken to marinate for 20 minutes.
In a heated wok or large sauté pan, add safflower oil and briefly fry the chicken strips.
Add ginger and garlic, and toss them together to coat evenly.
Add broccoli and half of the shiitake water to the pan, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until the broccoli is cooked.
Add scallions and the remaining soy sauce to the pan, and cook for an additional minute.
The resulting dish is high in flavor and low in carbohydrates.
For all intents and purposes, the cornstarch can be omitted, resulting in a broth instead of a sauce.

Variations

Add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for additional vegetables.
Use tofu or shrimp in place of chicken for a vegetarian or seafood option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to butterfly and lightly pound the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

- Marinating the chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

- Be sure to steam the broccoli until it is just tender, as overcooking can result in a mushy texture.

- For a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the pan and cook until the sauce has thickened.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

- Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the chicken and vegetables in a hot wok helps to retain their crisp texture and vibrant colors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute broccoli with bok choy or snow peas for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chilies for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed dumplings for a complete Chinese meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280 per serving

Carbohydrates

18g per serving

Fats

7g per serving

Proteins

32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate from the broccoli, as well as iron and zinc from the chicken.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Chinese Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this classic Chinese recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Chinese Chicken and Broccoli. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to China. She invited me over for lunch and insisted on preparing a traditional Chinese dish for me. I watched in awe as she effortlessly tossed together the chicken and broccoli with the perfect blend of seasonings and sauces.

As I took my first bite, I was immediately transported to a world of flavors and aromas that I had never experienced before. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce all came together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both comforting and exotic at the same time.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. My friend graciously shared the recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks she had picked up during her travels. I eagerly took notes, soaking up every detail like a sponge.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work in the kitchen. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, letting it soak up all the flavors for a few hours. In the meantime, I blanched the broccoli to bring out its vibrant green color and crisp texture.

Once the chicken was ready, I stir-fried it in a hot pan until it was cooked through and just starting to caramelize. Then, I added the broccoli and tossed everything together with a homemade sauce made from oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and a touch of sugar.

The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, a heady mix of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that made my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bite of homemade Chinese Chicken and Broccoli, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. The dish was everything I had hoped for and more, a symphony of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds with each bite.

I made a mental note to thank my friend for introducing me to this recipe and inspiring me to step out of my culinary comfort zone. I realized that cooking was not just about following a set of instructions, but about exploring new ingredients, techniques, and flavors from around the world.

Since that fateful day, Chinese Chicken and Broccoli has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress and satisfy. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of homemade Chinese cuisine to the next generation.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that magical summer day and the journey it set me on, I am grateful for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life and brought me closer to the people and cultures that inspire me every day. And I know that there are still countless recipes out there waiting to be discovered, each one a new chapter in my never-ending love affair with food and cooking.