Authentic Chinese Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

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Tender chicken bites glazed in a glossy, savory sauce paired with crisp-tender broccoli — this Authentic Chinese Chicken & Broccoli recipe is a comforting classic that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re trying to recreate your favorite takeout dish or just want a quick, homemade weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes: bold flavors, simple ingredients, and quick cooking.

What makes this dish so beloved is the balance of textures and flavors. The chicken is juicy and infused with a soy-garlic marinade, while the broccoli retains a fresh bite. The sauce clings to every bite with a rich umami depth, a hint of sweetness, and a subtle ginger finish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings when you crave something nourishing and flavorful without fuss.

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Ingredients for this Authentic Chinese Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched or steamed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for stir-frying
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds & chopped scallions, for garnish

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and a better texture. Lightly season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper, and set aside. If you’d like extra flavor, marinate the chicken in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch for 10–15 minutes.

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Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 1–2 minutes, just until they turn vibrant green. Quickly transfer them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them crisp and bright, perfect for stir-frying later.

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Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, chicken broth, and the cornstarch slurry. This mixture will become your glossy, flavorful stir-fry sauce. Set aside near the stove so it’s ready when you need it.

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Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

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Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the garlic and ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them — they should be golden and aromatic.

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Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the pan and add the blanched broccoli. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients beautifully.

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Step 7: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete, delicious meal.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Thighs offer a juicier texture, while breasts are leaner.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid watering down the sauce.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

You can use extra soy sauce with a touch of sugar or hoisin sauce, though oyster sauce adds unique depth.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a teaspoon of chili paste or a few dashes of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and ginger.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensure your oyster/hoisin sauces are gluten-free as well.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles are great. A side of egg drop soup or spring rolls also works well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a large enough wok or pan to avoid crowding, and adjust cooking times slightly.

How do I keep the broccoli crisp?

Blanching it briefly and adding it at the end of cooking helps it stay bright and crisp without overcooking.

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