Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a staple of weeknight cooking for a very good reason: it perfectly balances lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce that ties everything together. While many people first encounter this dish through Chinese takeout menus, making it at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and the intensity of the flavors. 🥢
This dish has become a global favorite because it relies on the “stir-fry” technique—a method of cooking ingredients quickly over high heat in a small amount of oil. This ensures that the chicken stays juicy and the broccoli retains its signature snap and bright green color.
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The Secret to a Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
The hallmark of a restaurant-quality Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is the texture. To achieve this, many chefs use a technique called “velveting.” This involves coating the sliced chicken in a small amount of cornstarch before cooking. The starch creates a thin protective barrier, preventing the meat from toughening up under high heat and helping the sauce cling to every piece.
Another essential element is the sequence of cooking. Because broccoli takes slightly longer to soften than thin strips of chicken take to sear, steaming the florets briefly or adding a splash of water to the pan halfway through ensures everything reaches peak tenderness at the exact same moment.
Essential Ingredients for Your Stir-Fry
To create an authentic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry, you will need a few pantry staples that build a deep, umami-rich profile.
- Chicken Breast or Thighs: 1 lb, thinly sliced against the grain.
- Broccoli: 2 large heads, cut into bite-sized florets.
- Aromatics: 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of fresh grated ginger.
- The Sauce Base: 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil.
- Thickener: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry).
- Cooking Oil: A high-smoke point oil like avocado or grapeseed oil……
