If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that brings a taste of Asian cuisine to your table, this Stir-Fried Chicken with Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe is just what you need. It’s a vibrant dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses with its fresh flavors and colorful presentation. You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the balance of textures – tender chicken paired with crisp, slightly bitter gai lan creates a delightful harmony in every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to expand your recipe repertoire, this dish is an inviting option that’s sure to please.
Vibrant Ingredients Come Together
The dish features a delightful combination of textures and colors, primarily showcasing the crispness of Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan, alongside tender slices of chicken. This Chicken with Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients that make every bite feel wholesome and satisfying.
Gai lan contributes a unique flavor profile, with its slight bitterness balancing the savory elements of the chicken. When stir-fried, the gai lan retains a perfect crunch, providing a refreshing contrast to the juicy chicken. This balance not only enhances the taste but also adds visual appeal to the plate.
A Savory Sauce to Elevate the Dish
The secret to a memorable stir-fry lies in its sauce. In this recipe, a combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce forms a glossy coating that envelops both the chicken and gai lan. This savory mixture brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients while introducing a touch of umami that elevates the entire dish.
Adding minced garlic and ginger infuses the stir-fry with aromatic notes, enriching the overall flavor. The sauce not only enhances taste but also adds an inviting sheen that makes the dish visually appealing, drawing you in for a closer look.
Quick and Convenient Preparation
One of the appealing aspects of this Chicken with Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe is its speed and ease of preparation. In just about 25 minutes, from marinating the chicken to serving it hot over rice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
The marination of the chicken is a simple step that infuses flavor without requiring lengthy preparation. While the chicken sits, you can quickly prep the gai lan and any other components, making it possible to have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
This dish is commonly served over a bed of steaming rice, which perfectly complements the flavors of the stir-fry. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite more satisfying and flavorful.
To enhance the meal further, consider adding a side of pickled vegetables or a light soup. These additions can provide a refreshing contrast, rounding out the dining experience and making it more enjoyable.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
This stir-fry is not only delicious but also offers various health benefits. The chicken serves as a lean source of protein, while gai lan is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, this dish is a wholesome option that fits into a balanced diet. The inclusion of vegetables ensures that you’re getting essential nutrients while keeping the meal light and nourishing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick family meal, this Chicken with Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe fits the bill. Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation can impress guests, while its simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
Moreover, the dish is versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding other vegetables or adjusting the protein according to your preference, making it an adaptable recipe for various occasions and tastes.
Flavorful Stir-Fried Chicken with Chinese Broccoli
This Stir-Fried Chicken with Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan) Recipe features juicy slices of chicken breast quickly cooked with vibrant gai lan and a savory sauce that brings everything together perfectly. The dish is both savory and slightly nutty, with a hint of garlic that elevates the overall taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 4 cups Chinese broccoli (gai lan), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Heat Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Gai Lan: Toss in the gai lan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes tender but still crisp.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to combine everything. Drizzle with sesame oil if using. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
