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If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness, you can’t go wrong with this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender chicken bites, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce that clings to every morsel. Ready in just about 25 minutes, it’s a fantastic weeknight go-to that feels like a special treat but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is carefully chosen to create a balance of fresh, flavorful, and colorful elements. These essentials not only build incredible texture but also layer in a winning taste profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced to cook quickly and evenly, providing juicy, tender protein.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, giving a lovely crunch and a beautiful green pop to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing, adding a light richness without overpowering flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that deepens the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings a gentle warmth and subtle zing, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties all ingredients together with umami depth.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Introduces a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory and tangy elements.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious coating.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential finishing touches to enhance every bite.
- Cooked rice, for serving: The perfect base to soak up all the saucy goodness.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes until the pieces are browned and cooked through. Removing the chicken at this point prevents overcooking later and helps keep the meat tender and juicy. Set the cooked chicken aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté them for 1 to 2 minutes. This step releases their amazing fragrance, forming the flavorful foundation for the stir fry sauce. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes. The goal is to achieve broccoli that’s tender but still crisp, giving a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. Watching the broccoli cook ensures it stays fresh and vibrant rather than becoming soft or soggy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the broccoli is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. The cornstarch is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker sauce that clings luxuriously to every piece. Pour this mixture over the broccoli and stir to coat it evenly, infusing your stir fry with that classic sweet-savory glaze.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, giving time for the sauce to thicken (if using cornstarch) and heat the chicken through again. This step melds all flavors harmoniously and helps the sauce bind beautifully to both the chicken and broccoli.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serving
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve your stir fry hot over freshly cooked rice. The fluffy rice absorbs the sauce wonderfully, making each bite a complete flavor experience. Simple, quick, and so satisfying!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can make your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe pop even more. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch or chopped green onions for a fresh burst of color and mild onion flavor. A few red pepper flakes can kick up the spice if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
While the stir fry stands strong on its own, pairing it with a light Asian-inspired side like cucumber salad or miso soup can turn your meal into a delicious feast. Steamed dumplings or crispy spring rolls also complement the dish wonderfully for a more festive touch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your stir fry in edible lettuce cups or inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful presentation. You can also mix and match different grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice to keep things exciting and adapt to your dietary preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, place any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They should keep well for up to 3 days, making this dish great for meal prepping or quick lunches during a busy week.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir fry for up to one month. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When thawed, the broccoli may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help refresh the texture and prevent drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even warming without overcooking the chicken or broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can make the stir fry soggy.
What other vegetables work well with this stir fry?
Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. These vegetables complement the chicken and broccoli nicely and add extra color and nutrition.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce, often labeled as tamari, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. The dish will taste just as amazing.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients a day in advance to save time. Keep it refrigerated and give it a quick stir before adding to your stir fry.
What’s the best way to slice the chicken for this recipe?
Slicing the chicken thinly and against the grain helps it cook quickly and stay tender. It’s easiest to partially freeze the chicken for about 20 minutes before cutting for cleaner, more precise slices.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a well-executed stir fry that combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavor, and this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s fast, fresh, and fabulously flavorful—perfect for sharing with family or friends on any night of the week. Give it a try, and you might just discover your next favorite meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
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Print
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry them for 4-5 minutes until they become tender-crisp but still bright green.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch if using. Pour this sauce mixture over the broccoli and stir well to coat evenly.
- Combine chicken and broccoli: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve the stir fry hot over cooked rice.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds before serving.
- The cornstarch is optional but helps thicken the sauce for a better coating.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for extra juiciness.
- Use fresh ginger for the best flavor, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
- Adjust honey quantity to make the sauce sweeter or less sweet according to preference.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, especially of the broccoli.
