This Chicken Thigh Broccoli recipe is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken thighs and vibrant, fresh broccoli, all brought together with a savory sauce. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides a nutritious meal option. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will absolutely adore this chicken thigh broccoli recipe for several reasons. Firstly, the flavor is simply irresistible — the rich, savory profile of the chicken thighs pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of broccoli, enhanced by a sauce that brings everything together. Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to cook, requiring minimal effort while still delivering a gourmet feel. This recipe fits seamlessly into a variety of diets, especially for those looking for high-protein, low-carb meals, making it a versatile choice for health-conscious eaters.
Tips and Tricks
To make this chicken thigh broccoli recipe even more enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:
- Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with flavor. You can use a simple mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a delicious kick.
- For a quicker cook time, cut the broccoli into smaller florets to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken.
- If you want extra crunch, you can sauté the broccoli in the pan after the chicken is finished cooking to get a nice sear without overcooking it.
Make Ahead Tips
For those looking to save time, there are several make-ahead options:
- Marinate the chicken thighs the night before for maximum flavor infusion.
- You can chop the broccoli and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Cooked chicken thigh broccoli can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations:
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, noting that breast meat cooks faster than thighs.
- Try adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, for added nutrients and color.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken thigh broccoli on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an added touch of flavor and presentation. A drizzle of fresh lime juice can enhance the dish’s overall brightness.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement this delicious dish, consider pairing it with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced green tea. For side dishes, consider serving with a simple cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup. A light fruit sorbet would make a refreshing dessert to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you wish to freeze the chicken thigh broccoli, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan for this recipe. If you prefer, a cast iron skillet could also work well for achieving a nice sear on the chicken. Additionally, having a meat thermometer on hand will help you ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Dietary Adaptations
For those needing dietary modifications:
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- If you’re looking for a vegan version, replace chicken thighs with tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based sauce.
- For those who are dairy-free, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, just ensure any sauces used are also dairy-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
This recipe can be adapted to incorporate seasonal produce. In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. During summer, fresh cherry tomatoes or zucchini could brighten up the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster.
What can I substitute for broccoli? Feel free to use any greens you enjoy, such as asparagus or green beans.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
How To Make chicken thigh broccoli recipe
Chicken Thigh Broccoli
This Chicken Thigh Broccoli recipe is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken thighs and vibrant, fresh broccoli, all brought together with a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken thighs. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, skin side down if using bone-in. Sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes, then add the broccoli around the chicken in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the broccoli is tender.
- Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 418Total Fat 29gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 166mgSodium 1242mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 4gSugar 1gProtein 35g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken thigh broccoli recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner or as part of a meal prep routine. With the tips, variations, and serving suggestions provided, you can customize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs. Happy cooking!