A quick, healthy, and flavorful dish, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a one-pan meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Healthy: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables or add-ins.
- Minimal cleanup: A one-pan recipe that simplifies mealtime.
- Family-friendly: A hit with adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cornstarch
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Directions
- Prep the ingredients: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the broccoli into florets. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and brown sugar if using.
- Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-fry broccoli: Add more oil to the skillet if needed. Stir-fry the broccoli until tender-crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
- Combine and simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and toss to coat. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and broccoli.
- Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or scallions if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add more veggies: Incorporate carrots, snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Switch the protein: Use shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives to chicken.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Spice it up: Add Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
- Sweeten it: A drizzle of honey can add a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw it first and pat dry to avoid excess water in the stir-fry.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles are great options to serve alongside.
3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook the chicken quickly over high heat and avoid overcooking.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and sauce ahead of time. Cook right before serving for the best taste.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili sauce for heat.
6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicier.
7. How do I thicken the sauce?
The cornstarch in the sauce will naturally thicken it as it cooks. If needed, simmer longer.
8. Can I make this without oyster sauce?
Yes, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar.
9. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add it during the final step to warm through.
10. What other seasonings can I use?
You can experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of rice vinegar for added depth.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a versatile, quick, and delicious meal that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles. With its balanced flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own, it’s a surefire way to satisfy your cravings without the fuss.
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This quick and easy chicken and broccoli stir fry is packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful homemade sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s healthy, delicious, and ready in just 30 minutes! Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for added color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the broccoli florets and bell pepper. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using).
- Combine and Cook:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped cashews.
- You can substitute tofu for chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
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