Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare healthy meals can be a challenge. However, with this low carb Asian chicken and broccoli skillet dinner, you can enjoy a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for weeknight meals, this recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a delightful Asian-inspired sauce.
Not only is this dish low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a keto or low carb diet, but it’s also loaded with protein and vitamins. The combination of chicken and broccoli provides a satisfying meal that will keep you full without the extra carbs. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that will surely become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chili flakes in a small bowl.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant green.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to coat evenly. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This low carb Asian chicken and broccoli skillet dinner is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. The flavors are deeply satisfying thanks to the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, which come together to create a savory and aromatic dish.
Moreover, this recipe is a fantastic way to get your daily dose of vegetables while keeping your carb intake in check. The broccoli not only adds crunch but also provides essential nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber.
Tips for Success
– **Choose the Right Chicken**: For the best texture, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
– **Fresh Ingredients**: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and ginger for the most vibrant flavors. Dried spices can be used in a pinch, but fresh ingredients make a significant difference.
– **Don’t Overcook the Broccoli**: To maintain its bright color and crisp texture, add the broccoli when the chicken is nearly done cooking. This will allow it to steam and become tender without losing its crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This low carb Asian chicken and broccoli skillet dinner can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice for an extra dose of veggies. If you prefer a heartier meal, serve it over brown rice or quinoa, keeping in mind that this will increase the carb content.
You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed edamame for a balanced meal. Feel free to adjust the portions based on your dietary needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may release more water during cooking. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid mushy broccoli.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Conclusion
This low carb Asian chicken and broccoli skillet dinner is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthy option for busy weeknights. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Try out this recipe today and enjoy a delicious meal that aligns with your low carb lifestyle. Bon appétit!
