From Alex Snodgrass of The Defined Dish
Here is my Whole30 take on the Chinese takeout staple. It’s clean, absolutely delicious, and will leave you oh-so satisfied. The best part? It’s one of my kids’ favorites!
Serves 4
Prep: 30 minutes
Closed Pot: 15 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
3 tablespoons avocado oil
½ cup Whole30-compliant chicken broth or Chicken Bone Broth (page 294)
¼ cup coconut aminos
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
½ teaspoon Whole30-compliant fish sauce
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 package (10.8 ounces) frozen broccoli florets, or 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed (see Tips)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted (see Tips)
2 green onions, sliced
Place the chicken in a medium bowl and sprinkle with the pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of the arrowroot and toss to coat.
On a 6-quart Instant Pot, select Sauté and adjust to Normal/Medium. Add the avocado oil. When it’s hot, add half the chicken and cook, stirring once, until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Select Cancel.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the broth, coconut aminos, vinegar, sesame oil, fish sauce, and remaining 1 teaspoon arrowroot until the arrowroot is dissolved. Add red pepper flakes (if using).
Return all of the chicken to the pot. Pour the sauce over the chicken. Lock the lid in place. Select Manual and cook for 6 minutes. Use quick release. Stir the chicken. Let stand until slightly thickened, 5 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the broccoli according to package directions.
Serve the chicken over the broccoli. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds and green onions.
Tip To toast sesame seeds, heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
Tip To steam fresh broccoli florets, combine in a microwave-safe bowl with 3 tablespoons water. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender.