- Corn starch (thickening agent for a smoother texture)
- Sesame oil (adds depth and aroma)
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray (for stir-frying, base fat)
- Fresh ginger (minced for an extra layer of flavor, optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, seasoning staples)
- Green onions (chopped, garnish for presentation)
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Steps
### Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Welcome to this delicious recipe for a Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a quick, healthy meal that's packed with flavor and nutrients.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
- 1 large head of broccoli (broken into florets)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
#### Equipment Needed:
- Large wok or large skillet
- Cutting board and knife
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preparation:**
- Start by preparing your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips, roughly about 1/2 inch wide. Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves.
- Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. **Marinate the Chicken (Optional):**
- In a bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss until evenly coated.
- Marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
3. **Cooking the Chicken:**
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and cook until they are no longer pink inside, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. **Cooking the Broccoli:**
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the broccoli florets and minced garlic.
- Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
5. **Combining Ingredients:**
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the broccoli.
- Pour in the remaining 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and any accumulated marinade from the chicken.
- Toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes until well combined.
6. **Thickening (Optional):**
- If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7. **Serving:**
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot directly from the pan or transfer to individual plates for a more elegant presentation.
### Tips for Success:
- Use high heat when stir-frying to ensure everything cooks quickly without becoming mushy.
- Keep all ingredients ready before starting, as this dish is best made in one continuous process to maintain its texture and flavor.
- For extra freshness, you can add some sliced red bell peppers or carrots while cooking the broccoli.
### Conclusion:
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a delightful, nutritious meal that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for any occasion. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, making it both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy your cooking!
**Keywords:** Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, Quick Healthy Meals, Home Cooking Recipes, Easy Stir-Fry Dish, Protein-Rich Meal