5-Ingredient Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Chicken is a favorite for many because it’s tasty, healthy, and easy to use in lots of recipes. You can grill it, stir-fry it, or cook it in so many ways, and it always makes a tasty meal. Pair it with broccoli, a superfood full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, and you’ve got a winning combo!

Chicken and broccoli go perfectly together. The tender chicken and crisp, fresh broccoli create a meal that’s not only delicious but also great for your health. It’s a quick and easy option for busy nights or anyone looking for a healthy dish.

The best part? This recipe needs just five simple ingredients! It’s fast, flavorful, and works great with rice, quinoa, or on its own. Whether you’re new to cooking or experienced, this 5-ingredient chicken and broccoli recipe is super easy and feels like a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• Olive oil
• Soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• Garlic powder (or fresh garlic cloves, minced)

How To Make 5-Ingredient Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Cut the Chicken Breasts:
  Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized cubes.Use a sharp knife to make uniform pieces.
• Wash the Broccoli Florets:
  If using fresh broccoli, rinse the florets thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Let them drain in a colander. If using frozen broccoli, you can skip washing but let it thaw slightly before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat the Skillet:
  Place a large skillet or frying pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready.
• Add the Chicken:
  Carefully place the cubed chicken into the hot skillet. Be cautious to avoid splattering.
• Season with Garlic Powder:
  Sprinkle the garlic powder evenly over the chicken. This adds flavor while keeping the recipe simple.
• Sauté the Chicken:
  Let the chicken cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or spatula. Ensure the chicken turns golden brown on the outside and is fully cooked inside. You can check by cutting into a piece—it should no longer be pink.
• Set Aside the Chicken:
  Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the broccoli.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

• Use the Same Skillet:
  Don’t wash the skillet—keeping it as it allows the broccoli to absorb the flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
  Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir them around to coat them in the oil. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.
• Steam if Necessary:
  If you prefer softer broccoli, add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet and cover it with a lid for 1-2 minutes. The steam will soften the broccoli quickly. Remove the lid and let any excess water evaporate.

Step 4: Combine and Add the Sauce

• Return the Chicken:
  Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the broccoli. This ensures the chicken stays warm and absorbs more flavor.
• Pour the Soy Sauce:
  Drizzle ¼ cup of soy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. The soy sauce will coat the ingredients, adding saltiness and depth of flavor.
• Mix Well:
  Stir everything together gently but thoroughly so the sauce evenly coats both the chicken and broccoli.
• Cook for 2-3 Minutes:
  Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps the soy sauce to slightly thicken and meld with the natural juices from the chicken and broccoli, creating a light glaze. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate the Dish:
  Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the chicken and broccoli hot.
• Pair with Rice:
  For a complete meal, serve this 5-ingredient chicken and broccoli recipe healthy with steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. The rice absorbs the sauce, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
• Garnish if Desired:
  Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for added texture and flavor.

Why These Steps Work

• Sautéing the chicken first ensures it gets a golden, flavorful exterior.
• Cooking the broccoli separately allows you to control its texture (crisp or tender).
• Combining everything with soy sauce ensures a balanced flavor throughout the dish.

Pro Tips:

1. Customize the Flavors: Add a drizzle of sesame oil or sprinkle sesame seeds before serving for extra flavor.
2. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
3. Even Cooking: Cut chicken and broccoli into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
4. Save Time: Use pre-cut broccoli florets or frozen broccoli to save on prep time.
5. Healthy Boost: Substitute white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Storage Instructions:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Let the chicken and broccoli cool completely.
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing:
   • Transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
   • Freeze for up to 3 months.
   • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating:
   • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
   • You can also use a microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.

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