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To make Chinese broccoli and chicken, you stir-fry the chicken until golden, add the Chinese broccoli, and toss everything in a savory garlic-ginger sauce.
It’s a quick, healthy dish that comes together in one wok in under 30 minutes.
If you’ve been wondering how to make Chinese broccoli and chicken at home, you’ll be happy to know it’s simpler than you think.
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients and a hot pan to get that glossy, takeout-style result.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make Chinese broccoli and chicken step by step, from prepping the greens to building the perfect stir-fry sauce.
Let’s get cooking.
Why Making Chinese Broccoli and Chicken Is Worth It
Making Chinese broccoli and chicken is worth it because it’s fast, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your rotation:
1. It’s a Balanced One-Pan Meal
When you make Chinese broccoli and chicken, you get lean protein and leafy greens in a single dish.
Chinese broccoli (also called gai lan) is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium and iron.
Chicken breast or thigh adds protein, so the meal keeps you full without feeling heavy.
2. It Cooks Faster Than Takeout
Making Chinese broccoli and chicken takes less time than ordering delivery.
Stir-frying is high-heat and quick, so the chicken stays juicy and the broccoli stays crisp-tender.
The whole thing is done in about 20 to 25 minutes, including prep.
3. The Sauce Is Simple but Powerful
Making Chinese broccoli and chicken taste authentic comes down to the sauce.
Oyster sauce, soy sauce, a little sugar, and sesame oil create that classic savory depth.
You can make Chinese broccoli and chicken gluten-free by swapping in tamari, too.
Ingredients for Chinese Broccoli and Chicken
Before you make Chinese broccoli and chicken, gather these ingredients:
1. Chicken and Chinese Broccoli
You’ll need about 1 pound of chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin against the grain.
Use 1 large bunch of Chinese broccoli, roughly 12 ounces, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces.
2. Aromatics and Sauce
For aromatics, you’ll need 3 cloves of garlic and 1 thumb of ginger, both minced.
For the sauce, combine 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
3. Cooking Essentials
You’ll also need 2 tablespoons neutral oil for stir-frying and a splash of sesame oil for finishing.
Having everything prepped before you make Chinese broccoli and chicken is key, since stir-frying moves fast.
How to Cook Chinese Broccoli and Chicken Step by Step
Now let’s walk through how to make Chinese broccoli and chicken without overcooking anything.
1. Prep and Velvet the Chicken
Toss the sliced chicken with 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon oil.
This quick “velveting” step keeps the chicken tender when you make Chinese broccoli and chicken.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prep the rest.
2. Stir-Fry the Chicken First
Heat your wok or skillet over high heat until it just starts to smoke, then add the oil.
Sear the chicken in a single layer for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and mostly cooked.
Remove it to a plate so it doesn’t dry out while the broccoli cooks.
3. Cook the Chinese Broccoli
Add the Chinese broccoli stems first and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
Then add the leaves and toss for another minute until they turn bright green and slightly wilted.
This is the part that makes or breaks your Chinese broccoli and chicken, so keep the heat high.
4. Combine and Sauce
Return the chicken to the pan, add the garlic and ginger, and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the sauce and toss everything until it thickens and coats the chicken and greens evenly.
Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and serve right away.
Tips for Making Chinese Broccoli and Chicken Perfect
Want restaurant-quality results when you make Chinese broccoli and chicken? Keep these tips in mind.
Don’t overcrowd the pan, since crowding steams the food instead of stir-frying it.
Slice the chicken against the grain for the most tender bites.
And toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like your Chinese broccoli and chicken with a little heat.
So, How Do You Make Chinese Broccoli and Chicken?
You make Chinese broccoli and chicken by stir-frying seasoned chicken until golden, then tossing it with crisp Chinese broccoli in a garlic-ginger oyster sauce.
The dish comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes and beats takeout on both flavor and nutrition.
Now that you know how to make Chinese broccoli and chicken, grab your wok and give it a try this week.