Better-Than-Takeout Chinese Chicken and Broccoli – Easy, Healthy & Packed with Flavor!

Craving your favorite Chinese takeout but want something healthier, fresher, and cheaper? This homemade Chinese Chicken and Broccoli recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a delicious garlicky sauce come together in one pan for the perfect weeknight meal!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your whole family, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the full step-by-step guide and learn how to make this iconic dish at home.

 Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

•  Quick & easy – ready in under 30 minutes
•  Healthy – loaded with protein and greens
•  Budget-friendly – way cheaper than delivery
•  Tastes just like (or better than) restaurant takeout
•  One pan = easy cleanup

 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into ½-inch cubes)
• 2 tsp honey
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Stir Fry:

• 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or water if needed)
• 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil, divided
• 1 head broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt, to taste

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix until all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra flavor).

 Pro Tip: The cornstarch helps tenderize the chicken and gives it that silky restaurant-style texture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped garlic and stir quickly for a few seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, until golden brown and mostly cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
Toss in the broccoli and ¼ cup of broth or water.
Cover and let steam for 1–2 minutes until it turns bright green.
Uncover and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the broccoli is crisp-tender (or softer, if preferred).

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet.
Add the oyster sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a pinch of salt if needed.
Toss everything together over medium-high heat until the sauce lightly coats the chicken and broccoli and everything is heated through (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Chinese chicken and broccoli hot over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and color.

 Perfect Pairings

• Jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried noodles
• Egg rolls or spring rolls on the side
• A light cucumber salad

 Tips for Success

• Use chicken thighs for more flavor, but breasts work too.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli—bright green and slightly crisp is best.
• Add sliced carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
• Prefer it spicy? Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha!

 Make It Your Own

This recipe is super customizable!
Swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp, use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free, or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own stir-fry masterpiece. Crack Chicken Tenders