Szechuan-Style Chicken with Broccoli
A vibrant and flavor-packed dish featuring spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce with tender chicken slices and crisp broccoli, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh chicken breast, cut into thin slices Juicy and tender, this chicken forms the hearty base of our dish.
- 3 cups broccoli florets These vibrant green florets add color and crunch.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Rich and salty, serves as the foundational flavor.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce Adds a wonderful depth and umami quality.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar A hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Nutty and fragrant, it brightens up the dish.
- 1 teaspoon sugar Complements the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional for those who prefer spice.
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For cooking the chicken.
- 2 cloves minced garlic Brings a comforting aroma.
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger Elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons water To create a silky sauce consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to rest.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the broccoli for 3-4 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender-crisp.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pan, sautéing for one minute until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the pan, mixing well with the broccoli.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Consider marinating the chicken for 15-30 minutes in soy sauce and ginger for deeper flavor. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful twist. Adjust red pepper flakes based on spice preference.