Garlic Chicken with Broccoli

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful dish that features tender chicken pieces and fresh broccoli tossed in a savory garlic sauce. It’s a popular option for quick weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying combination of protein and vegetables with bold, aromatic flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make – perfect for busy weeknights.

• Nutritious – packed with lean protein and fiber-rich broccoli.

• Customizable – easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

• Family-friendly – mild garlic flavor appeals to adults and kids alike.

• Restaurant-quality at home – enjoy takeout-style flavor without leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Fresh broccoli florets

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Soy sauce

• Chicken broth

• Cornstarch

• Sesame oil or vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, and cornstarch to create the sauce.

3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

4. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

5. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the broccoli for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of water and cover to steam for another 2–3 minutes until just tender.

6. Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir to combine.

7. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli.

8. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic sauce.

• Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice or enjoy it without any starch.

• Add extra vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots all work well.

• Use different protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef strips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating is also an option, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Use boneless thighs for juicier meat or avoid overcooking the chicken breast. Searing over medium-high heat also helps lock in moisture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in the dish. Fresh broccoli gives better texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat and combine with freshly steamed broccoli before serving.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos are good substitutes. Worcestershire sauce can work in a pinch with some adjustments.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, use tofu or a plant-based protein and substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely. Just maintain the ratio of soy sauce, broth, and cornstarch for a well-balanced flavor.

What’s the best rice to serve with this?

Jasmine or basmati rice pairs well, but you can also serve it with brown rice or noodles.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add a little more cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) during cooking until desired thickness is reached.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a healthy and satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s a flexible recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and with just a few ingredients, you can recreate your favorite takeout meal at home. Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.