Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy is a vibrant and savory dish. It combines the lean protein of chicken with the crisp freshness of bok choy, all cooked to perfection in a skillet. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors, with the savory soy sauce and the subtle nuttiness of sesame seeds offering a delightful contrast to the gentle bitterness of baby bok choy. The recipe is fairly simple and can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner.

Photos of Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

Two ingredients you may not commonly find in your pantry are baby bok choy and sesame seeds. Baby bok choy is a type of Chinese cabbage that has a light, sweet flavor and a crisp texture. It is often used in Asian cuisine and can be found in the produce section of most supermarkets. Sesame seeds are tiny, oil-rich seeds that add a great nutty flavor and crunch to dishes. They are usually available in the spice aisle, and may also be found in the international food aisle.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Chicken breast cutlets: Lean, low in fat and high in protein. They cook quickly and are tender and juicy when prepared correctly.

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken and bok choy, it lends a smooth, fruity flavor to the dish.

Baby bok choy: This leafy green adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color, as well as a lot of nutrients.

Garlic: Adds a strong, spicy flavor. It's minced and cooked into the sauce.

Sesame seeds: These add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor to the final dish.

Chicken broth: Provides the base for our sauce, contributing a deep, savory flavor.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the sauce.

Corn starch: It's used to thicken our sauce, giving it a silky, glossy finish.

One reader, Coop Hoang says:

This skillet chicken with baby bok choy recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken turns out so tender and juicy. The bok choy adds a delightful crunch, and the sauce ties everything together beautifully. It's now a staple in my weekly meal rotation!

Coop Hoang

Techniques Required for Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

How to prepare the sauce: Whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and corn starch in a small bowl until well combined.

How to sear the bok choy: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the bok choy in a single layer, sliced side down, and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until it has some color.

How to sear the chicken fillets: Heat olive oil in the skillet, then sear the chicken fillets for 4 minutes on each side until just cooked through and well browned.

How to make the sauce: After searing the chicken, add the garlic to the skillet and stir until fragrant. Pour the broth/soy sauce mixture into the skillet, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, and simmer the sauce until thickened.

How to serve: Pour the sauce over the chicken and bok choy, sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve with steamed rice.

How To Make Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Put together a wonderful 30-minute dinner with this skillet chicken that comes with seared bok choy and a savory sauce made of seasoned chicken broth.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupchicken broth
1½tbspsoy sauce,or tamari, if gluten free
1tbspcorn starch
1lbchicken breast cutlets,or fillets
2tbspolive oil,divided
1lbbaby bok choy,(6 to 8 small heads), halved lengthwise
2clovesgarlic,chopped
1tspsesame seeds,optional

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and corn starch. Season the chicken fillets lightly on both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
When the oil begins to shimmer and a wisp of smoke rise from the skillet, use a pair of kitchen tongs to add the bok choy to the skillet in a single layer, sliced side down. It’s fine to crowd the pan for this recipe. Be careful while adding the bok choy since the oil will sputter a bit; wear oven mitts if needed.
Sear the bok choy for about 2 minutes until it has some color on the bottom, then turn over and sear on the other side for another 2 minutes. Transfer the cooked bok choy to a serving plate.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Add the chicken fillets to the pan.
Sear the fillets for 4 minutes a side, until just cooked through and well browned. Transfer the cooked fillets to the serving plate on top of the bok choy.
Add the garlic to the skillet and stir for just until fragrant. Give the broth/soy sauce mixture a final stir to mix in any cornstarch that has settled to the bottom of the bowl, then pour the mixture into the skillet.
Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer the sauce until thickened.
Pour the sauce over chicken and bok choy. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve with steamed rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 311.79kcal
Fat: 18.60g
Saturated Fat: 4.25g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.78g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.33g
Carbohydrates: 8.57g
Fiber: 1.55g
Sugar: 2.59g
Protein: 27.24g
Cholesterol: 74.37mg
Sodium: 497.68mg
Calcium: 113.71mg
Potassium: 618.12mg
Iron: 1.59mg
Vitamin A: 45.96µg
Vitamin C: 31.21mg

Technique Tip for Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

When searing chicken or any other type of meat, it's important to let the pan get hot before adding the oil. This allows the oil to heat up more quickly and evenly, resulting in a better sear on the meat. Additionally, avoid moving the meat around too much once it's in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to allow a crust to form. This not only adds flavor but also makes it easier to flip the meat without it sticking to the pan.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Skillet Chicken Dish

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan cooking: Use a large skillet to cook the chicken and bok choy together, minimizing clean-up and saving time.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce and steam the rice simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.

Quick sear: Sear the chicken and bok choy at a higher heat to achieve a golden crust in a shorter amount of time.

Efficient slicing: Slice the bok choy and chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and to reduce prep time.

Organized workspace: Before starting, ensure all ingredients and cooking tools are readily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook for a more efficient cooking experience.

Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the dish, and it complements the other ingredients well.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor that works well in this recipe.
corn starch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of corn starch and will yield a similar texture in the dish.
chicken breast cutlets - Substitute with turkey breast cutlets: Turkey breast cutlets can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
baby bok choy - Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for baby bok choy, offering a similar tender texture and mild, slightly earthy flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic, adding depth to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can add a nutty crunch similar to sesame seeds, enhancing the texture and flavor of the dish.

Presenting Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Elevate the plating: When presenting this dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use vibrant and fresh ingredients to add color and appeal. Consider the balance of the elements on the plate to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a variety of textures to the plate to add depth and complexity. Utilize crispy sesame seeds for crunch, tender chicken, and the delicate, leafy bok choy for a contrast in mouthfeel.
Emphasize the sauce: Drizzle the rich, glossy sauce over the chicken and bok choy with precision. The sauce should be evenly distributed and not overpower the other elements on the plate.
Utilize negative space: Allow the plate to breathe by using negative space strategically. This will draw attention to the main components of the dish and create a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle the dish with a delicate touch of sesame seeds to add a final touch of flavor and visual interest. The garnish should be sparing but purposeful, enhancing the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for gripping and lifting foods.
Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking grains.

Storing and Freezing Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Let the skillet chicken and bok choy cool to room temperature before storing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to soggy or spoiled food.
Store the leftover chicken and bok choy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to place the container on a shelf towards the back of the fridge, where the temperature is most consistent.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, transfer the cooled chicken and bok choy to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when the food was frozen.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken and bok choy in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the food is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chicken and bok choy directly from the freezer in the microwave. Place the food in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the food is heated through.
Properly stored, the skillet chicken and bok choy will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. However, for the best quality and flavor, try to consume the leftovers within 1 month of freezing.

How To Reheat Leftover Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Reheat the chicken and bok choy in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This method helps to retain the original texture and flavor of the dish.
If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
For a quicker option, place the chicken and bok choy in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the dish halfway through to ensure even heating.
If you have stored the chicken, bok choy, and sauce separately, reheat the chicken and bok choy first, then add the sauce and stir until combined and heated through.
To add a fresh twist to your leftovers, shred the reheated chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap with the bok choy and some crispy vegetables for added texture.
If you have access to an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken and bok choy in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
For a comforting and filling meal, transform your leftovers into a stir-fry by adding some cooked rice, noodles, or quinoa to the reheated chicken and bok choy. Toss everything together with the sauce and enjoy a brand new dish.

Interesting Fact About Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

The baby bok choy in this recipe is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. It's a nutritious and delicious addition to the skillet chicken dish.

Is Making Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this skillet chicken with baby bok choy recipe is quite favorable for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken breast, baby bok choy, and soy sauce makes it a budget-friendly option. The dish offers a delightful combination of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for a family. The approximate cost for a household of four people would be around $15-$20, depending on the prices of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Skillet Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This skillet chicken with baby bok choy recipe is a healthy and nutritious meal option. The dish is packed with lean protein from the chicken breast cutlets, which are a great source of essential amino acids and low in fat. Baby bok choy is a nutrient-dense vegetable, providing vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber and minerals like calcium and iron. The use of olive oil in the recipe adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Additionally, the garlic and sesame seeds offer both flavor and potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and providing antioxidants.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Increase the amount of baby bok choy or add other nutrient-rich vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to boost the fiber and vitamin content
Use whole grain rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber and complex carbohydrates in the meal
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as ginger or red pepper flakes, to add flavor without relying on salt
Consider using a small amount of toasted sesame oil for added flavor and potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and supporting heart health

Editor's Opinion on Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe

The recipe for skillet chicken with baby bok choy is a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant bok choy, and a savory sauce. The cooking method ensures that the bok choy retains its crispness while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. The use of soy sauce and sesame seeds adds an umami depth to the dish, complementing the natural sweetness of the bok choy. This recipe is a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Toss the asparagus in olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest before steaming for a burst of flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Coat sweet potato wedges in a mixture of honey, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper before roasting for a sweet and spicy kick.

Grilled Pineapple: Brush pineapple slices with a mixture of brown sugar, rum, and lime juice before grilling for a caramelized and tropical side dish.

Similar Recipes to Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.

Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli: Sauté thinly sliced beef with broccoli florets in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, and diced mango in a jar and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight for a creamy and nutritious dessert or breakfast option. Top with shredded coconut and fresh mango slices before serving.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy baguette slices with a refreshing combination of diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. This appetizer is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their chicken dish. The combination of savory soy sauce and flavorful sesame seeds adds depth to the dish, while the use of baby bok choy introduces a healthy and vibrant element. The careful instructions and use of chicken broth ensure a well-balanced and delicious outcome. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe to create a memorable culinary experience for you and your loved ones.

Share your thoughts on this Skillet Chicken with Baby Bok Choy Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried!

FAQ:

What can I substitute for baby bok choy if I can't find it?

If you can't find baby bok choy, you can substitute it with regular bok choy, gai lan (Chinese broccoli), or even spinach. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the substitute, so adjust accordingly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast cutlets?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast cutlets. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary as chicken thighs are typically thicker than breast cutlets.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce, as it is a gluten-free alternative. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth you use is also gluten-free.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture and prep the bok choy in advance. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the chicken and bok choy, make the sauce, and assemble the dish.

What can I serve with this skillet chicken and baby bok choy?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. The sauce from the skillet chicken and baby bok choy is delicious when drizzled over the accompanying grains or noodles.