Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling hungry but not wanting to cook much. We’ve all been in that spot, looking for something easy yet satisfying. The best chicken and broccoli recipe is here to save the day. It’s not just tasty, but also healthy, keeping you feeling good.
This dish pairs tender chicken with crunchy broccoli in a mix of flavors. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, thanks to a quick prep time and fast cooking. Enjoy a meal that’s both quick to make and full of nutrients, without feeling guilty.
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Why This Chicken and Broccoli Recipe Stands Out
If you’re looking for an easy chicken and broccoli recipe, you’ve found it. It’s not only delicious but also healthy. It’s quick to make and loved by all who try it. Let’s see what makes it special.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This recipe is known for its simple prep. It takes just 50 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a brief overview of what you’ll need :
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Fresh or frozen broccoli
- Soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce for rich, umami flavors
- Garlic and ginger for an aromatic base
- Optional ingredients like Shaoxing rice wine and sesame oil
Marinating the chicken is key for flavor. Steaming the broccoli for a minute keeps it tender. Adding cornstarch thickens the sauce. The result is a tasty dish.
Health Benefits
This dish is both tasty and nutritious. It’s full of protein, vitamins, and minerals:
- Protein from chicken (19g per serving)
- Essential vitamins like Vitamin A and C
- Low in carbohydrates (11g per serving)
- Managed sodium levels with reduced-sodium soy sauce options
It’s a great way to eat healthy without losing flavor. Pair it with rice for a full meal.
User Reviews
Many home cooks love this recipe. They say it’s easy to make and always tastes great.
“I’ve made this chicken and broccoli dish multiple times, and it never fails to impress my family!” – Jessica M.
“The ease of preparation and the fantastic flavor make this a staple in our weekly meal plan.” – Michael B.
These reviews show why it’s a favorite dinner choice. Its simplicity and taste have won many fans.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Broccoli
Making the perfect chicken and broccoli dish starts with the right chicken and broccoli recipe ingredients. Each part is key to a tasty and healthy meal. Using fresh broccoli brings out the best in its texture and health benefits. Let’s explore what you need:
- Chicken: You’ll need 4 (6-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For extra flavor, try chicken thighs, which have about 9 grams of fat per 100 grams, compared to 3.6 grams in breasts.
- Fresh Broccoli: Make sure you have 8 cups of small florets. Fresh broccoli gives you about 55 calories, 4 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fiber per serving.
- Garlic: You’ll need three cloves. Garlic can lower heart disease risk by 25%.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: It helps keep sodium levels down. It can cut sodium by 30-50% compared to full-sodium broth.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: It also helps lower sodium. Full-sodium soy sauce has about 1,000 mg of sodium per tablespoon.
- Cornstarch: You’ll need about 1 tablespoon to thicken 1 cup of liquid.
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons are needed to cook the chicken.
- Butter: Six tablespoons plus extra for the baking dish to make it richer.
- Whole Milk: Four cups for a creamy texture.
- Cream Cheese: Four ounces, adding a creamy element.
- Cheddar Cheese: An 8 oz block (around 2 cups when grated). It adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Grated Parmesan: Half a cup for a salty finish.
- Kosher Salt: Half a teaspoon to balance the flavors.
- Black Pepper: One teaspoon for a slight kick.
- Cayenne Pepper: A quarter teaspoon for a bit of heat.
- Crushed Butter Crackers: One cup for a crunchy topping.
- Cooked Long-Grain Rice: Three cups to serve as the base of your meal.
This mix of natural ingredients makes your chicken and broccoli dish delicious and nutritious. The combination of these chicken and broccoli recipe ingredients creates a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a healthy meal for any time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Broccoli
Follow this step-by-step chicken and broccoli guide to make a tasty and healthy dish. This guide is easy to follow, even for beginners. You’ll be able to make a great meal without any trouble.
Whisk the Sauce
Begin by making the sauce. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 6 oz of cream cheese. Whisk until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce will make your chicken and broccoli dish rich and flavorful.
Cook the Chicken
Now, cook the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces. Cook for about 10 minutes, until it’s fully cooked and golden.
Cooking the chicken and broccoli together saves time and keeps them fresh.
Steam the Broccoli
While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli. Use 6 cups of broccoli florets and steam for 3-4 minutes. This keeps the broccoli crisp and flavorful, perfect with the chicken.
Combine and Serve
When the chicken and broccoli are ready, mix them together. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). In a big baking dish, combine the chicken, broccoli, and sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
Then, sprinkle 3/4 cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. This step combines the flavors and adds a golden crust.
Variations and Substitutions for Your Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
The chicken and broccoli recipe is very flexible. You can adjust it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. By trying different ingredients, you can make this dish special every time.
Vegetable Variations
This meal can be made with many different vegetables. You can add bell peppers, green beans, or sugar snap peas to it. These add color and nutrients.
For a heartier feel, try cauliflower, asparagus, or mushrooms. They make the dish look good and taste great. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your preferred combination.
Protein Substitutions
Want to change the protein or follow a special diet? There are many options. Tofu is a tasty choice for vegetarians, with a crispy texture.
Shrimp makes for a light but filling meal. Ground turkey or pork also work well, keeping the dish’s rich taste.
Serving Suggestions
How you serve your meal matters a lot. Try different bases like steamed rice, rice noodles, or quinoa. They all add something special.
Adding extra steamed veggies like carrots or bok choy is a good idea. They add variety and nutrition. For a crunchy touch, sprinkle some nuts on top. These minor adjustments can have a significant impact on your meal.
Conclusion
This chicken and broccoli recipe is a quick and nutritious meal. It’s simple to prepare in less than 30 minutes. Each serving has 405 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 15 grams of carbs.
The recipe is also very versatile. You can add different veggies or try different proteins. This makes it a great choice for any meal or event.
Trying this recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and tasty dinner. The ingredients are easy to locate, and the instructions are straightforward. It shows that you can make a great meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and good for you.
FAQ
What makes this Chicken and Broccoli recipe the best?
This recipe is quick and easy to make. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients and tastes great. It’s perfect for any day, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this Chicken and Broccoli recipe?
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This makes it a great choice for a fast weeknight meal.
What are the health benefits of this Chicken and Broccoli dish?
This dish is low in calories but full of protein and nutrients. Broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals. Chicken provides lean protein that’s good for muscles.
What ingredients do I need for the best Chicken and Broccoli?
You’ll need fresh broccoli, good chicken cuts, and sauces like soy sauce. Don’t forget garlic and ginger for flavor.
Can I make any substitutions in this Chicken and Broccoli recipe?
Yes, you can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas is also a good idea.
How do I cook the chicken to ensure it’s tender?
Cook the chicken on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s not pink inside. This way, it stays juicy and full of flavor.
What are some serving suggestions for this Chicken and Broccoli recipe?
Serve it over rice, like jasmine or brown. Or pair it with noodles, like lo mein or soba. This makes the meal even more appealing.
What do user reviews say about this Chicken and Broccoli recipe?
People love how easy and tasty it is. They say it’s perfect for busy weekdays. They also rave about its flavor.
How can I retain the nutrients and color when steaming broccoli?
Steam broccoli until it’s tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. This keeps its nutrients and color bright.