Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Thigh and Broccoli recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. This simple recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I'm excited to share it with you. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this flavorful and healthy dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Wash and cut the broccoli into florets. Having everything prepped before you begin cooking will make the process much smoother and faster.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir to combine everything. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional) and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with brown rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure it browns properly and cooks evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less soy sauce, ginger, or red pepper flakes depending on your preference.
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas.
- Use different sauces: Experiment with other sauces like teriyaki sauce or oyster sauce.
- Add some protein: Shrimp or tofu would be delicious additions to this recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a great source of lean protein and essential vitamins. The exact nutritional content will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, you can expect a serving to contain roughly:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Thigh and Broccoli recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food can be simple and quick to make. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights or whenever you're craving a flavorful and nutritious meal. Enjoy!