Chicken broccoli is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant vegetables and flavorful seasonings. This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 10 Chicken pieces (5 thighs + 5 drumsticks), skin removed
- 2 tsp White Pepper
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes
- 2 Large Onions, roughly chopped
- 400g Button Mushrooms, thickly sliced
- 2-4 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped
- 2 Large Red Peppers, halved then thickly sliced
- 3/4 Cup cremonaise mayonnaise or any mayonnaise of your choice
- 3 tbsp Jalapeno Chutney
- 2 tbsp Chicken Stock Powder
Directions:
- Season the chicken with white pepper, chili flakes, and salt. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 1 hour.
- In high heat, warm 2 tbsp canola or sunflower oil, then brown the chicken, serving side first, for about 3 minutes on each side. Keep the chicken aside covered.
- Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, sauté onions, mushrooms, peppers, and garlic for 5 minutes, then add the chicken back into the veggies.
- Season with white or cracked black pepper and chicken stock powder. Stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, mix the cremonaise with chutney and 3/4 cups of water. Pour over the chicken and veggie mixture.
- Simmer for 30 minutes over medium-low heat.
- After 30 minutes, taste and adjust the seasoning by adding a little salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
Tips:
- When browning the chicken, ensure the pan is hot enough to sear the chicken pieces properly.
- Adjust the level of chili flakes according to your preference for spiciness.
- Use fresh vegetables for optimal flavor and texture.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve with steamed broccoli florets for a complete and nutritious meal.
Conclusion:
Enjoy this delectable chicken broccoli dish, rich in flavor and nutrients. With tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Bon appétit!
- Can I use boneless chicken instead of chicken pieces with skin?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken pieces with the skin removed, you can easily substitute boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken cooks through without becoming dry. Boneless chicken tends to cook faster, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. - What can I use as a substitute for cremonaise mayonnaise?
If you don’t have cremonaise mayonnaise on hand, you can use any mayonnaise of your choice as a substitute. Additionally, you can experiment with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor profile. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences and desired consistency of the sauce. Keep in mind that different substitutes may alter the overall flavor slightly, so taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken broccoli dish ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. After simmering the chicken and vegetable mixture, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the dish on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage. - How can I customize this recipe to suit my dietary preferences?
This chicken broccoli recipe offers plenty of flexibility for customization to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt instead of traditional mayonnaise. Additionally, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or snow peas to enhance the nutritional value and add extra color to the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the chicken and substitute tofu or chickpeas for a protein-rich alternative. Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavors to your liking, whether you prefer a touch of heat from additional chili flakes or a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup.
In conclusion, this chicken broccoli recipe offers a versatile and delicious option for a satisfying meal. With a few simple substitutions and adjustments, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature version of this flavorful dish!