Chinese cuisine has long been a favorite among food enthusiasts for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and intricate cooking techniques. Among the myriad of dishes, Chinese Chicken with Broccoli stands out as a beloved classic. This dish, known for its tender chicken pieces and crisp broccoli florets coated in a savory sauce, is a staple in many Chinese restaurants. In Virginia Beach, this dish is not only a popular takeout option but also a culinary delight that reflects the city’s vibrant food culture. This article delves into the intricacies of Chinese Chicken with Broccoli, its nutritional aspects, and where to find the best versions of this dish in Virginia Beach.
The Essence of Chinese Chicken with Broccoli
Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the crunchiness of broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce. The dish typically features marinated chicken pieces stir-fried with broccoli and seasoned with a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. The sauce, often thickened with cornstarch, adds a glossy finish and a burst of umami flavor.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are commonly used. The chicken is often marinated to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are preferred for their crisp texture and nutritional benefits.
- Sauces and Seasonings: Soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes Shaoxing wine or rice vinegar are used to create a rich, savory sauce.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy finish.
- Oil: Vegetable oil or sesame oil is used for stir-frying.
Nutritional Aspects
Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is not only delicious but also nutritious. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and fiber. Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, making this dish a balanced meal option. However, the nutritional content can vary based on the cooking method and ingredients used.
According to FoodData Central, 1 cup of chopped raw broccoli contains approximately 30.9 calories, 2.57 grams of protein, and 0.34 grams of total fat. A 4-ounce serving of raw boneless, skinless chicken breast has about 136 calories, 25.4 grams of protein, and 2.96 grams of total fat. The calorie count of the dish can increase depending on the amount of oil and sugar used in the sauce.
Cooking Techniques
The preparation of Chinese Chicken with Broccoli involves several key steps to ensure the dish is flavorful and the ingredients are cooked to perfection.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and ensuring it remains tender during cooking. Common marinade ingredients include soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sometimes baking soda to tenderize the meat.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is the primary cooking method for this dish. It involves cooking the ingredients quickly over high heat, which helps retain their texture and flavor. The chicken is usually stir-fried first until it is browned and almost cooked through, then removed from the pan. The broccoli is then added to the pan and stir-fried until it is vibrant green and tender-crisp. Finally, the chicken is returned to the pan along with the sauce, and everything is cooked together until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
Variations of the Dish
While the classic version of Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is widely loved, there are several variations that add unique twists to the dish.
Adding Other Vegetables
Incorporating other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms can add color, texture, and additional nutrients to the dish.
Different Sauces
The sauce can be customized to suit different tastes. For a sweeter flavor, hoisin sauce can be used. For a more savory and less sweet option, oyster sauce or teriyaki sauce can be substituted.
Protein Alternatives
While chicken is the most common protein used, this dish can also be made with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on the classic recipe.
Chinese Chicken with Broccoli in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is home to a plethora of Chinese restaurants that offer delicious renditions of Chinese Chicken with Broccoli. Here are some notable places where you can enjoy this dish.
Peking City
Located in Virginia Beach, Peking City Chinese Restaurant is known for its authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including a well-loved Chicken with Broccoli. The convenient location and affordable prices make it a popular choice for both dine-in and takeout meals.
No. 1 Yummy Chinese Restaurant
No. 1 Yummy Chinese Restaurant offers a delightful Chicken with Broccoli that is both flavorful and satisfying. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and variety of tastes. They also offer convenient online ordering for takeout, making it easy to enjoy their delicious dishes at home.
Mei Zhen Chinese Restaurant
Mei Zhen Chinese Restaurant, located at The Shops at Hilltop, is another great spot to enjoy Chinese Chicken with Broccoli. The restaurant is praised for its friendly atmosphere and excellent service, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Making Chinese Chicken with Broccoli at Home
For those who prefer to cook at home, making Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is a straightforward process that can be completed in under 30 minutes. Here is a simple recipe to try.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet or wok, add 1/4 cup of water and bring to a boil. Add the broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine and Cook: Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Perfect Chinese Chicken with Broccoli
- Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick process, and having everything ready will ensure smooth cooking.
- High Heat: Use high heat for stir-frying to achieve a nice sear on the chicken and to cook the broccoli quickly without making it mushy.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce while cooking.
- Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables or adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is a versatile and delicious dish that has become a favorite in many households and restaurants. In Virginia Beach, this dish is celebrated for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits. Whether you choose to enjoy it at a local restaurant or make it at home, Chinese Chicken with Broccoli is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal. With its combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce, this dish exemplifies the best of Chinese cuisine and continues to be a beloved classic.