Are you searching for a quick and tasty meal that’s packed with nutrition? This chicken with broccoli and mushrooms recipe is the perfect solution.
This recipe offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. Not only is it versatile and easy to prepare, but it also caters to various dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegan variations.
Why This Recipe is a Great Choice
This dish is a favorite among home cooks because it’s:
- Nutritious: High in protein from the chicken, vitamins from the broccoli, and antioxidants from the mushrooms.
- Quick and Easy: The entire meal can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: You can make it spicy, creamy, or even turn it into a vegan delight.
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli and Mushrooms
Broccoli is a superfood known for its high vitamin C and K content, which boosts immune health and supports bone strength. Additionally, it contains fiber, aiding in digestion. To explore more about the nutritional benefits of broccoli, you can visit Healthline.
Mushrooms are low in calories but high in selenium, an essential antioxidant. They also offer unique umami flavors that enhance the taste of any dish. For guidance on selecting the freshest mushrooms, The seriouseats’ guide to buying mushrooms is a helpful resource.
Ingredients Overview
To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of basic, wholesome ingredients:
- Chicken: Choose chicken breast for a leaner option or chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Broccoli: Use fresh florets or frozen ones if you’re short on time.
- Mushrooms: Shiitake, crimini, or white button mushrooms work best due to their texture and flavor.
Here’s the full list of ingredients:
- 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs, chopped into small, bite-sized chunks.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup mushrooms (shiitake, crimini, or portabella), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari as a gluten-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for deeper umami flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- Carrots, thinly sliced for added sweetness
- Red bell pepper, for a pop of color and crunch
- Toasted sesame seeds, as a garnish for added flavor and texture
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Chicken: An excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle recovery and growth.
- Broccoli: Rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and offering anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mushrooms: High in B vitamins, which boost energy levels and support brain function.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you begin cooking, ensure you have the following tools ready:
- Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for stir-frying as it allows for even heating and quick cooking.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping the chicken and vegetables.
- Steamer Basket (optional): To steam the broccoli before adding it to the stir-fry.
- Spatula or Tongs: To stir and toss the ingredients evenly.
Tip: Using a cast-iron skillet can enhance the searing of the chicken, giving it a delicious, crispy texture without sticking. Non-stick pans are also a good option if you want to minimize oil usage.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Preparation
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper. Marinate for 10-15 minutes. This step helps make the meat more tender.
- Chop the Vegetables: Slice the mushrooms, cut the broccoli into small florets, and mince the garlic.
2. Stir-Fry Method
- Heat the Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until it’s golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a separate dish.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add garlic and onions to the skillet, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms and Broccoli: Toss in the mushrooms and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the broccoli turns bright green.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the remaining soy sauce and chicken broth. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
3. Braising Variation
For a saucier version, add 1/2 cup of chicken broth after sautéing the vegetables. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
4. Serving Tips
- Over Rice: Serve this dish over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- With Noodles: For a different twist, toss the stir-fry with cooked noodles like soba or rice noodles.
- Meal Prep: Divide into portions for meal prep, making it an ideal option for busy weekdays.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Creamy Chicken with Broccoli and Mushrooms
Create a creamy version by adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk to the stir-fry towards the end of cooking. This imparts a smooth, luxurious texture to the dish. Top with grated parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.
2. Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free. For a thickening agent, swap out cornstarch with arrowroot powder.
3. Vegan Version
Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Tofu, when pressed and cubed, mimics the texture of chicken and absorbs the flavors of the sauce well. You can also add extra vegetables like snap peas or baby corn for variety.
4. Spicy Kick
Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to give this dish a spicy twist. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes also works well for those who prefer a bit of heat.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Velveting Technique: Marinating the chicken with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a bit of oil before cooking helps to keep the meat tender and juicy. This is a common method used in Chinese cuisine.
- Achieving Crispy Vegetables: To prevent overcooking the broccoli and ensure it retains its bright color, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes before adding it to the stir-fry.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of cornstarch slurry. For a lighter sauce, use less cornstarch and more chicken broth.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing: This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture. Store it in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags for easy portioning.
- Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. If microwaving, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely to prevent the sauce from splattering.
Related Recipes to Try
- Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry: A simple yet flavorful dish perfect for garlic lovers.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta: Ideal for those craving a rich, creamy meal with a pasta twist.
- Broccoli and Tofu Stir-Fry: A vegan alternative that’s packed with protein and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli or mushrooms?
Yes, frozen broccoli and mushrooms work well in this recipe. However, be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.
How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or potato starch. These are both gluten-free and will give the sauce a similar consistency.
What other vegetables can be added to this dish?
This recipe is very versatile. You can include bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, or even zucchini. These vegetables add color, texture, and extra nutrients to the meal.
Is it possible to make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make this dish in an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the chicken and vegetables, then pressure cook on high for 3 minutes with a 5-minute natural release.
Conclusion
This chicken with broccoli and mushrooms recipe is a quick, easy, and versatile option for a weeknight meal. Whether you prefer a classic stir-fry, a creamy version, or a gluten-free adaptation, this dish caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. It’s perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet while enjoying a flavorful meal. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations.
Enjoy this wholesome, satisfying meal with family and friends, and make it your own by adjusting the spice level or adding your favorite veggies. With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious dinner ready in no time!