Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Bacon Broccoli recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a perfect choice for the entire family. This easy recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant broccoli florets in a savory sauce, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cook the Bacon & Chicken:
- In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broccoli & Sauce:
- Stir in the broccoli florets, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Bake to Perfection:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. The sauce should have thickened nicely.
Finishing Touches:
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the crispy bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy meal!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of honey to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter sauce, while others prefer a more savory one.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will ensure that it browns evenly and cooks through properly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Bacon Broccoli recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on taste or health. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!