Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's also quick to make? Look no further! This ground chicken broccoli recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and provides a wholesome dinner the whole family will enjoy. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering a delicious dish without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the broccoli florets, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, soy sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet and stir constantly until the sauce has thickened. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the ground chicken broccoli immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them entirely.
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Broccoli: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with extra garlic for a bright and zesty twist.
- Spicy Chicken Broccoli: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Creamy Chicken Broccoli: Stir in a 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This ground chicken broccoli recipe is a simple yet satisfying healthy meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a versatile dish that allows for endless variations, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes that are also good for you. Enjoy this easy and flavorful meal!