Let me tell you, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is one of my absolute go-to dishes! It’s not just delicious, but it’s also super healthy and so easy to whip up. I love how the tender chicken and vibrant, crisp broccoli come together in this flavorful garlic sauce. It’s a quick meal that feels like a treat, and the best part? It’s ready in just about 30 minutes! Seriously, if you’re looking for something that’s light on calories but heavy on taste, this is it! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and your body will too!
Ingredients for Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh for the best crunch and flavor)
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips (this helps it cook evenly)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (you can adjust this depending on how garlicky you like it!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing and adding richness)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (this adds a lovely umami flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to help thicken the sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this for that extra flavor boost!)
How to Prepare Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Now, let’s get cooking! This Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is so simple, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want that oil nice and hot, but not smoking!
- Next, add the 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, or it can turn bitter!
- Now, toss in your sliced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You’re looking for no pink in the center!
- Time to add the broccoli! Stir-fry those beautiful florets with the chicken for another 3-5 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. You want them to retain their bite!
- In a small bowl, mix together the 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. This is your magic sauce!
- Pour that mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up beautifully.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, and you’re ready to serve this delicious dish hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy and packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli and lean chicken.
- Flavorful garlic sauce that brings everything together in a delightful way.
- Customizable! Add your favorite veggies or adjust the garlic to suit your taste.
- Low-calorie yet satisfying—this dish won’t weigh you down.
- One-pan meal means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!
Tips for Success
Here are my top tips to make your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli really shine! First, always use fresh broccoli; it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you want a deeper garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit for a few minutes before adding it to the pan. That way, it releases all those amazing aromas! Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; give it some space to brown nicely. And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Lastly, serve it immediately for the best taste and texture—trust me, you don’t want to wait!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, you can feel good about what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with such a wholesome profile, you can enjoy this dish knowing it’s not just tasty, but also a smart choice for your health!
Common Questions About Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
I’ve had quite a few questions pop up about this delicious Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, so let me tackle some of the most common ones you might be wondering about!
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
You can absolutely use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pan to avoid excess water. Fresh is always my preference for crunch, but frozen can work in a pinch!
What can I serve with Garlic Chicken with Broccoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or steamed dumplings for a complete meal. It’s so versatile!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Just chop the chicken and broccoli, and store them in the fridge. Then, you can whip it up in no time when you’re ready to eat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, just swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free version or use tamari. You’ll still get that fantastic flavor without any gluten!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like some heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha when you add the soy sauce. It’ll give your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli a nice kick!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of Garlic Chicken with Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down a bit before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overcook it, or the chicken might get tough! Enjoy it right away for the best taste and texture!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli experience, consider serving it over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or whole grain rice for a hearty touch. Noodles, like soba or rice noodles, can also make a delightful base, soaking up that savory garlic sauce. For a fresh contrast, a crunchy cucumber salad or a light side of steamed dumplings can enhance the meal beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil adds a lovely depth of flavor. Trust me, these pairings will take your dinner to the next level!
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For tips on the health benefits of garlic, you can visit Healthline.