This Low Carb Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken breast, vibrant broccoli florets, and a rich, savory sauce that ties it all together. Perfect for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle, this dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. With its quick cooking time and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this low carb chicken and broccoli recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity! The chicken is marinated to perfection, ensuring each bite bursts with taste, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate. The best part? This dish is perfectly aligned with low-carb diets, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. Quick to prepare and easy to clean up, it’s a winning dish for busy weeknights or meal prep days!
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli tastes much better than frozen, enhancing the overall dish.
- One-Pan Wonder: To simplify cleanup, consider using just one pan for cooking both the chicken and broccoli.
- Add Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing zing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can quickly become dry; cook until just done, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t skimp on the spices; they are crucial for flavor. Taste as you go!
- Ignoring the Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli is fully cooked but still crisp to enjoy its texture and nutrients.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who like to plan ahead, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the broccoli in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you just need to combine and sauté!
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or tofu as a substitute for chicken.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or incorporate different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese for a rich, creamy sauce that goes perfectly with the chicken and broccoli.
How to Serve
Serve this low carb chicken and broccoli dish hot, straight from the skillet. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the chicken slices alongside the broccoli and drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or herbal iced tea complements the meal well. If you’re looking for sides, consider serving with a fresh garden salad or cauliflower rice for a full low-carb experience.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
- A large skillet or sauté pan for cooking
- A mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
- Tongs for flipping the chicken
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit any butter and use olive oil instead. For a vegan version, replace the chicken with marinated tofu and use vegetable broth in place of any chicken broth. Ensure all sauces and seasoning blends are free from allergenic ingredients according to your dietary needs.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider adding fresh asparagus for a seasonal twist. During fall, you can incorporate roasted butternut squash for a touch of sweetness. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to match the flavor profiles of the seasonal vegetables!
Cost Breakdown
This low carb chicken and broccoli recipe can be made for under $10, yielding about four servings, making it a budget-friendly option. Swap out fresh broccoli for frozen if you’re looking to save even more, as it’s often cheaper.
Kitchen Hacks
- Quick Garlic Prep: To peel garlic easily, smash the clove with the flat side of a knife; the skin will slip off effortlessly.
- Chop Broccoli Efficiently: Cut the stem at an angle to create uniform florets quickly, ensuring even cooking.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before marinating for optimal flavor absorption.
How long does it take to cook? The chicken takes about 6-8 minutes to cook through, and the broccoli should be sautéed for about 3-4 minutes.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas are great additions.
Low Carb Chicken And Broccoli
This Low Carb Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken breast, vibrant broccoli florets, and a rich, savory sauce that ties it all together. Perfect for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle, this dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free version)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips and place them in a mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Pour this marinade over the chicken and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the broccoli. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 352Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 629mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 4gSugar: 1gProtein: 39g
Chickenrecipes.blog, 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 low carb chicken and broccoli recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and health. It’s a wonderful dish to add to your weekly rotation, offering versatility and satisfaction. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors to make it your own! Happy cooking!
