Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

If you're looking for a delightful fusion of flavors and a quick dinner idea, this simple hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe is your answer. It brings together savory chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich hoisin sauce for an irresistibly tasty dish that's ready in no time.

Photos of Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, there are a few you might need to look for. Hoisin sauce, a key ingredient, is a thick, fragrant sauce commonly used in Chinese cooking, and can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Similarly, rice wine vinegar is another typical Asian ingredient that adds a touchy of acidity to balance flavors. Lastly, if you don't regularly cook with sesame oil, it's a flavorful oil widely used in Asian cuisine for its distinctive nutty aroma and taste.

Ingredients for Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Hoisin sauce: A key ingredient that gives the dish its unique, sweet and tangy flavor.

Chicken thigh fillets: The star of this dish, providing a good source of protein.

Garlic cloves: Adds a burst of flavor to the stir-fry.

Onion: Provides a slightly sweet flavor and texture.

Rice wine vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity to balance the dish's flavors.

Soy sauce: Gives a savory, umami taste.

Ground ginger: Brings a warm, spicy flavor.

Sesame oil: Used for stir-frying, it adds a rich, nutty flavor.

Red capsicum pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly pungent flavor and vibrant color.

Broccoli florets: A healthy addition providing a crunchy texture.

Cornflour: Helps thicken the sauce for a richer feel.

Water: Used to dilute the cornflour.

Eggs: The base for the Chinese omelette served with the dish.

Soy sauce (for the omelette): Adds extra flavor to the omelette.

Sesame oil (for the omelette): Used for cooking the omelette, providing a distinct taste.

One reader, Bernete Reis says:

This hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of hoisin sauce, tender chicken, and crisp veggies is simply mouthwatering. It's a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and my family absolutely loves it!

Bernete Reis

Essential Techniques for Making Stir-Fry Recipes

How to marinate the chicken: Combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of the hoisin sauce and let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to quickly marinate.

How to stir-fry the chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large wok on medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken, and stir-fry until golden. Remove from the pan onto a warmed plate and set aside.

How to stir-fry the vegetables: Increase the heat to high, then add the garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute or until fragrant and golden. Add the onion, red capsicum peppers, and broccoli, and sauté for 2 minutes or until the colors become vibrant.

How to thicken the sauce: Combine the cornflour and water together, then add it to the stir-fry. Sauté for 3 minutes until the sauce has thickened, the chicken has cooked through, and the vegetables are just tender.

How to make the Chinese omelette: Whisk the eggs and soy sauce together in a bowl. Heat a separate smaller skillet with the oil. When beginning to steam, add the eggs and swirl them around the base to create a thin layer. Allow to bubble and fry for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden, then flip and continue frying for a minute until cooked through. Break up the omelette and serve over the hoisin chicken with some steamed rice.

How To Make Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Forget the takeout and try remaking this broccoli stir-fry at home instead! It’s coated in a savory hoisin sauce and paired with tasty chicken and omelette.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Marinate: 10 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Hoisin Chicken:

⅓ cup hoisin sauce
1lbchicken thigh filletsskinless and boneless, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2garlic clovespeeled and crushed
1onionsliced
1tbsprice wine vinegar
1tbspsoy sauce
½ tspground ginger
1tbspsesame oil
1 red capsicum pepperor bell pepper, deseeded and diced
4cupsbroccoli florets2 heads of broccoli
2tspcornflour
2tbspwater

For Chinese Omelette:

4eggswhole
1tspsoy sauce
1tspsesame oil

Instructions

Hoisin Chicken:

Combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of the Hoisin sauce.
Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to quickly marinade.
Heat the sesame oil in a large wok on medium-high heat.
Add the chicken then stir-fry until golden.
Remove from the pan onto a warmed plate and set aside.
Increase to high heat, then add the garlic before stir-frying for about 1 minute or until fragrant and golden.
Add the onion, red capsicum peppers and broccoli.
Sautee for 2 minutes or until colours become vibrant.
Return chicken to the pan with the remaining hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and ground ginger.
Stir fry for 2 minutes more.
Combine the cornflour and the water together, then add it to the stir fry.
Sautee for 3 minutes until sauce has thickened, the chicken has cooked through and the vegetables are just tender.

Chinese Omelette:

Whisk the eggs and soy sauce together in a bowl.
Heat a separate smaller skillet with the oil.
When beginning to steam, add the eggs and swirl them around the base to create a thin layer.
Allow to bubble and fry for about 1 to 2 minutes until golden, and flip.
Continue frying for a minute until cooked through.
Break up the omelette, then serve over the Hoisin Chicken with some steamed rice. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1000.64kcal
Fat: 36.92g
Saturated Fat: 8.71g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.25g
Carbohydrates: 130.21g
Fiber: 10.60g
Sugar: 76.37g
Protein: 37.04g
Cholesterol: 278.77mg
Sodium: 4606.17mg
Calcium: 172.14mg
Potassium: 1178.90mg
Iron: 5.87mg
Vitamin A: 388.38µg
Vitamin C: 221.95mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting This Stir-Fry Recipe

When stir-frying, it's important to keep the ingredients moving. This not only ensures even cooking, but also helps to prevent them from sticking to the pan. Using a wok is ideal for stir-frying as its high, sloping sides make it easy to toss and stir the ingredients. However, if you don't have a wok, a large frying pan will work just fine. Just make sure it's heated properly before adding your ingredients. A well-heated pan will sear the chicken and vegetables quickly, keeping them crisp and colorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Stir-Fry Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan wonder: Use a large wok to cook the entire dish in one pan, saving time on cleanup.

Chop and freeze: Pre-cut and freeze the broccoli and other vegetables for quick and easy use in stir-fries.

Multitask: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the omelette to save time in the kitchen.

Quick cook: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking and easier preparation.

Efficient cooking: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking and to save time on chopping.

Substitute Ingredients For Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

hoisin sauce - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste has a similar umami-rich flavor and can provide a depth of flavor similar to hoisin sauce.
chicken thigh fillets - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
rice wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide the tangy acidity that rice wine vinegar offers in the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and offers a similar savory, umami flavor.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor similar to sesame oil and can be used as a substitute in stir-fry recipes.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, providing a similar texture and ability to absorb flavors in the stir-fry.
cornflour - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornflour, providing a similar consistency to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Elevate the hoisin chicken: Arrange the hoisin chicken in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is visible and appealing.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle a generous amount of toasted sesame seeds over the hoisin chicken to add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Create a broccoli nest: Artfully arrange the broccoli florets around the hoisin chicken, creating a nest-like appearance to showcase the vibrant green color and freshness of the broccoli.
Drizzle with hoisin reduction: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle a delicate hoisin reduction in an artistic pattern around the dish, adding a touch of elegance and flavor complexity.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few carefully chosen edible flowers around the plate to add a pop of color and a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Use fine china: Present the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry on a pristine, high-quality plate to enhance the visual appeal and elevate the dining experience for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stir-Fry Recipes

Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, pan-frying, deep-frying, poaching, boiling, braising, searing, stewing, making soup, smoking, and roasting nuts.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used to mix, spread, and lift food.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs and sauces.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, marinating, and storing food.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting food.
Steamer: A cooking tool used for steaming vegetables and other foods.
Small skillet: A smaller version of a skillet used for cooking smaller portions of food.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Allow the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, warm the stir-fry in a skillet or wok over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze, portion the stir-fry into individual serving sizes for easy reheating later.
Tip: Lay the freezer bag flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing.
When ready to enjoy the frozen stir-fry, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed stir-fry in a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
If the sauce appears too thick after freezing and reheating, add a small amount of water or chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Note: The texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Stir-Fry

Reheat the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help steam the vegetables and prevent them from drying out. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until heated through and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
For a crispy texture, reheat the stir-fry in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes. Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover loosely with foil to prevent the chicken and vegetables from drying out. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the edges to crisp up slightly.
Microwave the leftovers in a microwave-safe container with a loose-fitting lid. Add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to help steam the vegetables and prevent them from becoming soggy. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have leftover Chinese omelette, reheat it separately in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed through and slightly crispy. Cut the omelette into strips and serve it on top of the reheated hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry.
For a fresh twist, transform the leftovers into a stir-fry fried rice. Heat some oil in a wok or large skillet, add cooked rice, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Add the leftover hoisin chicken and broccoli, along with some scrambled eggs, peas, and carrots. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil to taste, and stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until heated through and well combined.

Interesting Fact About Hoisin Sauce

The recipe includes a delicious combination of hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Is Making Stir-Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thigh fillets, broccoli, and onion makes it budget-friendly. The dish offers a good balance of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and economical choice for a household. The approximate cost for a family of four is around $15-$20, depending on the availability and prices of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Stir-Fry Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and flavor. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional merits:

Chicken thigh fillets provide a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
The use of sesame oil adds a nutty flavor and provides heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
The Chinese omelette adds additional protein to the dish.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

The hoisin sauce and soy sauce contain sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess. Consider using low-sodium versions of these sauces or reducing the amount used in the recipe.
The recipe calls for cornflour as a thickening agent, which is a refined carbohydrate. You could replace it with a healthier alternative, such as arrowroot powder or a small amount of pureed vegetables.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, you could:

Increase the variety of vegetables used in the stir-fry, such as carrots, bok choy, or mushrooms, to provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals.
Use a mix of whole eggs and egg whites in the Chinese omelette to reduce the overall cholesterol content.
Serve the stir-fry with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as cashews or peanuts, to provide healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.

Editor's Opinion on This Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The use of hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich and aromatic base for the dish, while the addition of colorful vegetables adds freshness and texture. The Chinese omelette provides a lovely contrast with its delicate and fluffy texture. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of ingredients and cooking techniques, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish that is sure to please the palate.

Enhance Your Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, perfect for soaking up the flavorful hoisin chicken sauce.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a zesty sprinkle of lemon zest, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory hoisin chicken.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon: Caramelized sweet potatoes roasted with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon, providing a sweet and aromatic complement to the savory stir-fry.

Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a tangy citrus dressing, offering a light and refreshing side to balance out the rich flavors of the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry.

Delicious Alternatives to Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Spicy Beef and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry: This spicy beef and bell pepper stir-fry is a delicious and easy dish to make at home. The combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal. The juicy mangoes, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables are tossed in a tangy dressing that will leave you wanting more.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This classic soup is made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream for a rich and velvety texture. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Berry Cobbler: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm and comforting berry cobbler. The juicy berries are topped with a buttery and flaky crust, creating a delightful dessert that is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Stir-Fry Meal

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Each bite is a burst of earthy, umami goodness that will leave you craving for more.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these crispy coconut shrimp. Each bite is a perfect combination of crunchy, golden-brown coating and succulent, juicy shrimp. Dip them in a tangy sweet chili sauce for an explosion of flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety 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 crunch.

Why trust this Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe:

This recipe offers a delicious and flavorful hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of savory hoisin sauce and tender chicken thigh fillets creates a mouthwatering dish. The addition of garlic, onion, and red capsicum peppers infuses the stir-fry with aromatic flavors. The use of rice wine vinegar and soy sauce enhances the umami taste, while the ground ginger adds a hint of warmth. With the perfect balance of textures and flavors, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Simple Hoisin Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry or discuss tips and variations? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thigh fillets?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thigh fillets. However, be mindful that chicken breast tends to cook faster than thigh fillets, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Can I substitute hoisin sauce with another sauce?

While hoisin sauce has a unique flavor, you can substitute it with oyster sauce or a combination of soy sauce and honey for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the taste will vary based on the substitution.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat to the dish, you can include a chopped chili pepper or a dash of chili flakes when stir-frying the vegetables. You can also drizzle some sriracha or chili oil over the finished dish for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version of this stir-fry. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or water chestnuts to enhance the dish's flavors and textures.

Can I prepare the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the hoisin chicken and broccoli stir-fry in advance. Simply store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it in a pan or microwave until heated through.