Chicken and Broccolini Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals

Originally posted on May 27, 2021 @ 8:59 pm

If you’re searching for a delicious, nutritious way to combine tender chicken with vibrant, crunchy broccolini, you’re in the right place. Chicken and broccolini recipes offer a perfect balance of protein and greens, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

Whether you prefer stir-fries, one-pan bakes, or simple sautés, broccolini’s slightly sweet and earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the mildness of chicken. Plus, these dishes are not only flavorful but also packed with vitamins and minerals that support a healthy lifestyle.

In this blog post, we’ll explore several mouthwatering chicken and broccolini recipes that are easy to prepare, healthy, and sure to impress your family or guests. From garlic-infused chicken breasts to Asian-inspired stir-fries, these recipes highlight the versatility of broccolini and how it complements chicken in various cooking styles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and broccolini recipes are a perfect fusion of taste, texture, and nutrition. Broccolini, often mistaken for baby broccoli, has thinner stalks and a slightly sweeter flavor, which contrasts wonderfully with the savory richness of chicken.

These recipes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the seasonings and cooking methods according to your preferences.

Most dishes featuring chicken and broccolini come together quickly, making them fantastic options for busy weeknights. Additionally, they are packed with protein and fiber, which help keep you full and energized.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, these recipes strike the perfect balance between comfort food and healthy eating.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or cubes)
• 1 bunch broccolini (trimmed and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated, optional)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
• 2 green onions (sliced for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or wok for stir-frying
• Sharp knife for slicing chicken and broccolini
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl to combine sauce ingredients
• Tongs or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry (if using)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the broccolini: Trim off any tough ends and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
4. Heat the skillet: Place the large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to warm up.
5. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken strips to the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Sauté the broccolini: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the broccolini and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns bright green and becomes tender-crisp.
7. Combine chicken and sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet with the broccolini. Pour the sauce over the top and stir to coat everything evenly.
8. Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl. Pour this slurry into the skillet and stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
9. Finish and garnish: Remove from heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and presentation.
10. Serve hot: Enjoy your chicken and broccolini over steamed rice, noodles, or as is for a low-carb option.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the sauce ingredients before cooking. This allows the meat to absorb more of the delicious Asian-inspired flavors!”

• Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful chicken option.
• Try a lemon garlic marinade for a brighter, Mediterranean twist on this dish.
• Swap broccolini for broccoli or asparagus if you want to change up the green vegetable.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and color.
• For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha sauce before serving.
• For a quick sheet pan version, roast chicken and broccolini together with your favorite herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and broccolini dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a full meal, serve it over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the savory sauce.

Alternatively, nestle the chicken and broccolini atop a bed of cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb, nutrient-dense option.

If you’re in the mood for noodles, toss it with soba or rice noodles for a comforting Asian-inspired bowl. Pair the meal with a light cucumber salad or miso soup to round out the flavors and textures beautifully.

Conclusion

Chicken and broccolini recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal any day of the week. The tender, juicy chicken combined with the crisp, slightly sweet broccolini creates a comforting yet light dish that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these recipes are easy to follow and adaptable to your personal preferences.

By incorporating these dishes into your meal rotation, you’ll discover how simple and delicious healthy eating can be. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and cooking methods to make each recipe uniquely yours.

Happy cooking!

For more inspiring and tasty dishes, be sure to check out our Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, and Vegetarian Quinoa Bowls recipes!

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