Imagine it has been an extended day and you are too worn out to cook dinner. We’ve all been there. That’s why I’m excited to share my favourite chicken and broccoli recipe. It’s short, smooth, and tastes extraordinary. Your family will love it a lot; they will ask for extra.
This one-pan marvel combines chicken, broccoli, and cheese in only half an hour. It’s best for busy people, mothers and fathers, or anyone who desires a delectable, healthful meal fast.
Home chefs have given this recipe a 4.80 out of five rating. It’s not just rapid; it’s also packed with 46g of protein and lots of nutrients. It’s super for people who care about their fitness.
This dish is awesome for two or for meal prep. It’s easy to make, and everyone loves it. So, let’s get started on this scrumptious fowl and broccoli recipe in an effort to be your new weeknight favorite.
Table of contents
- Why This Quick Chicken and Broccoli Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
- Essential Ingredients for Your Shopping List
- Kitchen Tools and Equipment Required
- Chicken and Broccoli Recipe Step-by way of-Step Guide
- Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
- Nutritional Benefits and Macros
- Storage and Meal Prep Instructions
- Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
- Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
- Health Benefits and Dietary Information
- Conclusion
Why This Quick Chicken and Broccoli Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Feeling bored with cooking for hours after a protracted day? This bird and broccoli recipe is here to save you time. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it best for short, wholesome meals.
Time-Saving Benefits
This recipe helps you have dinner ready quicker than ordering takeout. It’s perfect for busy nights when you do not have much time. Plus, it only requires simple substances, making shopping clean.
One-Pan Cooking Advantage
Forget about cleaning up after dinner. This one-pan meal makes cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for people who love cooking but hate the cleanup.
Family-Friendly Appeal
Chicken and broccoli are cherished with the aid of both youngsters and adults. This dish is simple to personalize to please all and sundry. Try those versions:
- Swap chicken for beef, pork, or tofu
- Add bell peppers, snap peas, or asparagus
- Spice it up with Sriracha or red pepper flakes
- Garnish with sesame seeds or cashews
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Method | One-pan stir-fry |
| Leftovers Storage | Up to 4 days |
| Serving Options | Rice, noodles, or grains |
Discover the ease and efficiency of this chicken and broccoli recipe. It’s ideal for busy families wanting to enjoy healthy, homemade meals without losing time or flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Your Shopping List
Starting with the proper substances is fundamental for a tasty chicken and broccoli recipe. Your list for this brief 30-minute meal includes all you need for a satisfying dinner. Let’s look at what you’ll want to make this flavorful dish.
Protein and Produce Components
Chicken breast and broccoli florets are the primary stars of this dish. Chicken breast is lean and cooks rapidly, making it first-rate for quick dinners. Broccoli provides a nutritious crunch and is a top vegetable aspect dish. For greater taste, upload clean garlic and ginger.
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce makes this dish pop: soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. These blend together for a taste that is both savory and candy.
Pantry Staples Needed
Remember these pantry need to-haves:
- Olive oil and sesame oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- Cornstarch for thickening the sauce
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1 pound | Main protein |
| Broccoli florets | 4 cups | Vegetable component |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup | Sauce base |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup | Sauce liquid |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Thickening agent |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a tasty, protein-rich meal perfect for busy nights. This recipe is also flexible. You can swap broccoli for spinach or asparagus, keeping it easy and adaptable to your taste.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Required
Get prepared for one-pot cooking and clean dinner ideas with the proper tools. A 12-inch skillet with excessive aspects is your best friend for this bird and broccoli dish. It offers enough space for components and stops spills at some point in cooking.
Don’t forget about a good-becoming lid. It’s critical for trapping warmness and making sure even cooking. A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are vital for prepping your substances quickly and safely.
Accurate measurements are key to an excellent sauce. Invest in hard and fast measuring cups and spoons. They’ll help you nail the recipe whenever.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 12-inch skillet | Main cooking vessel |
| Lid | Even cooking and heat retention |
| Chef’s knife | Ingredient preparation |
| Cutting board | Safe chopping surface |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate ingredient portioning |
With these tools on hand, you’re all set to create delicious, fuss-free meals. The right equipment makes one-pot cooking a breeze, perfect for those busy nights when you need easy dinner ideas.
Chicken and Broccoli Recipe Step-by way of-Step Guide
Looking for smooth dinner ideas? This short weeknight dinner of birds and broccoli is ideal. Let’s spoil down the system into easy steps you may follow quite simply.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting 1 ¼ kilos of boneless, skinless chook breast into bite-sized portions. In a bowl, blend 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, and three tablespoons of neutral oil to create a marinade. Coat the fowl and allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
Cooking the Broccoli
While the chook marinates, prepare 1 pound (5-6 cups) of broccoli florets. Heat a massive pan over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and a dash of water. Cover and steam for three minutes until bright green and crisp-smooth.
Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk collectively:
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
Final Assembly
Heat oil in the pan and cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes. Add 3 tablespoons minced ginger and 6 minced garlic cloves, stirring for 30 seconds. Pour in the sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook until thickened. Add the broccoli back to the pan and toss to coat. Serve hot over rice for a delicious, easy dinner idea.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 411 |
| Total Fat | 18.3g |
| Carbohydrates | 25.5g |
| Protein | 37.7g |
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Mastering this chook and broccoli recipe is prime to developing easy dinners that galvanize. With a 5-star score from 13 critiques, those pro guidelines will elevate your cooking game.
Start by slicing your chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and ideal texture. Marinate the chicken for 15 minutes to boost taste. Use a non-stick skillet for quality effects, cooking the chicken for two minutes per facet.
For crisp-soft broccoli, steam florets for two minutes before adding them to the pan. Stir-fry broccoli for one minute to maintain its colourful colour and nutrients.
Combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of sugar to create a flavorful sauce. Add Shaoxing cooking wine to the marinade for a true taste. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for intensity.
| Ingredient | Cooking Time | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 2 minutes per side | Uniform 1-inch cubes |
| Broccoli | 2 minutes steam, 1 minute stir-fry | Steam before frying |
| Aromatics | 2-3 minutes | Stir-fry until fragrant |
Remember, these meal prepping tips will help you create delicious easy dinners in no time. With practice, you’ll perfect this 30-minute meal, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Nutritional Benefits and Macros
This easy chicken and broccoli recipe is a exquisite blend of vitamins. It’s perfect for the ones seeking out protein-rich dishes and healthful meals. Let’s explore the dietary blessings of this tasty dish.
Protein Content
Each serving has 41 grams of protein, which is set fifty per cent of your everyday desires. This excessive protein facilitates the construction and restores muscular tissues. It’s an extremely good desire after operating out.
Calorie Breakdown
An unmarried serving has 447 energy. It’s divided into fifty-three carbs, 17% fat, and 30% protein. This blend keeps you complete and offers you electricity for a long time.
Vitamins and Minerals
This dish is full of important vitamins. It’s rich in vitamins B3, B6, C, and K. You get eighty per cent of your daily vitamin B6 and 52% of diet C in each serving. It also has minerals like phosphorus, iron, and potassium.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 447 | – |
| Protein | 41g | 57% |
| Carbs | 32g | – |
| Fat | 16g | – |
| Fiber | 4g | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 47mg | 52% |
| Vitamin B6 | 1mg | 85% |
| Iron | 3mg | 41% |
This chicken and broccoli recipe is a top pick for healthy meals. It’s packed with nutrients and tastes great.
Storage and Meal Prep Instructions
Mastering meal prep is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. This chicken and broccoli recipe is ideal for your meal prep routine. Proper storage lets you enjoy it all week.
Let the dish cool down after cooking. Use 4-cup glass bowls to portion it out. This recipe makes 6 servings at 619 calories each or 7 servings at 530 calories each. Keep these containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To store longer, freeze portions for months. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Add water or broth to keep it moist if needed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Microwave 2-3 minutes |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Thaw overnight, then microwave |
For better meal prep, use a half sheet pan for cooking and a microwave vegetable steamer for reheating. Always follow food safety guidelines when storing your meals.
Planning ahead and using these tips ensures you always have a healthy meal ready. This chicken and broccoli recipe is tasty and saves time on busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Make your chicken and broccoli dish even better with the right sides. This meal is top-notch for smooth dinners and pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few tasty alternatives to finish your meal.
Rice Options
White rice is a traditional, however brown rice is healthier. It adds fiber and vitamins. For a low-carb desire, attempt cauliflower rice. It’s a great alternative for normal rice.
Alternative Side Dishes
Try these vegetable side dishes to go along with fowl and broccoli:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Sautéed inexperienced beans
- Steamed blended vegetables
- Light garden salad
Garnish Ideas
Finish your dish with these garnishes:
- Sprinkle of sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lemon wedges for a zesty squeeze
For first-rate clean dinners, stability is fundamental. Mix and match these sides and garnishes. Your chicken and broccoli dish will always be exciting!
| Side Dish | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted Broccoli | 129 | 10 | 2 |
| Brown Rice (1 cup) | 216 | 5 | 2 |
| Cauliflower Rice (1 cup) | 25 | 2 | 0 |
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Want to try something new with chicken and broccoli? Here are some tasty ways to make gluten-free dishes and low-carb recipes. They fit your dietary needs and tastes.
For a gluten-free dish, use tamari instead of soy sauce. This keeps the flavor the same but makes it safe for those with gluten issues. To make it low-carb, try cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It cuts down carbs but keeps the texture.
Looking for a protein swap? Try tofu, tempeh, or shrimp. They add new flavors to your meal. If you love veggies, use cauliflower, green beans, or bell peppers instead of broccoli.
| Protein Option | Vegetable Substitute | Average Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Broccoli | 391 |
| Tofu | Cauliflower | 285 |
| Shrimp | Bell Peppers | 325 |
| Tempeh | Green Beans | 350 |
Spice lovers can add red pepper flakes or sriracha for more heat. These changes let you make different, healthy meals that fit your diet.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making easy dinners or short food, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes. By keeping off these mistakes, your dishes will constantly taste great.
Temperature Control
Keeping the right temperature is critical for properly cooking. Make sure to preheat your oven or pan nicely. Don’t open the oven door too regularly, as this may mess up your dish’s cooking.
Sauce Consistency Issues
Getting the sauce just proper may be hard. It’s all approximately the usage of the right quantities of elements. If your sauce is just too thick or too thin, regulate it with cornstarch or cooking time. Always taste as you visit make the proper adjustments.
Timing Considerations
Timing is the entirety for quick dinners. Read the recipe cautiously before you begin. Preparing substances ahead of time could make cooking faster. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan whilst sautéing, because it prevents even cooking.
Finally, watch how long you cook dinner proteins. Overcooking could make them difficult and dry. Let cooked meat rest earlier than reducing to preserve it juicy and tender. By heading off those mistakes, you’ll get higher at making tasty, clean dinners.
| Common Mistake | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Inadequate seasoning | Bland or unbalanced taste | Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking |
| Overcrowding the pan | Uneven cooking and poor browning | Cook in batches if necessary |
| Not preheating | Inconsistent cooking results | Always preheat oven, pan, or grill before cooking |
Health Benefits and Dietary Information
This fowl and broccoli dish is a dietary powerhouse. It’s complete of critical nutrients, making it a exceptional preference for wholesome food. It would not sacrifice flavor or pleasure.
The birdbreast in this recipe is a lean protein powerhouse. It has 32g of protein in line with serving, helping muscle fitness and retaining you completely. TessaRecipes says it can assist in reducing heart ailment and type 2 diabetes dangers.
Broccoli, the star vegetable, is rich in vitamins and minerals. An unmarried serving offers you greater than your daily want of nutrients C and K. These vitamins assist lessen inflammation, improve heart health, and may improve your brain.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 332 | – |
| Total Fat | 15g | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
| Fiber | 5g | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 161mg | 179% |
This balanced meal is low in carbs, fitting various diets. It’s easy to make gluten-free with simple changes. With its impressive nutrition, this chicken and broccoli recipe shows healthy meals can be tasty and fulfilling.
Conclusion
This 30-minute hen and broccoli recipe is a recreation-changer for easy dinner thoughts. It has the simplest 450 energy consistent with serving. It’s additionally filled with 35g of protein, making it an awesome desire for brief weeknight dinners.
The dish has 30g of fats and 10g of carbs. This makes it a balanced meal it really is each enjoyable and healthful.
You’ll love the versatility of this recipe. It offers many versions, which include vegan options with chickpeas or tofu in preference to chook. For the ones following specific diets, gluten-unfastened and dairy-free substitutions are available.
The dish caters to various nutritional desires while keeping its scrumptious flavour. Prep time is just 20 minutes, with only 10 mins of cooking. This makes it perfect for busy families.
Plus, leftovers store properly inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You also can freeze portions for later use. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for a circle of relatives, this chook and broccoli recipe is positive to emerge as a staple for your kitchen.