If you’re craving a dish that brings vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying protein all in one pan, the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe is a perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken paired with crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a sweet and savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone wanting a quick midweek meal, this stir fry is straightforward, wholesome, and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. From the vibrant green broccoli to the punchy ginger and garlic, these essentials come together beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: For crunch and a vibrant pop of green nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that helps develop a beautiful sear and prevent sticking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an irresistible aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Offers a subtle spicy warmth and freshness.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides that perfect salty umami base.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the soy with a natural touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives a gentle tang that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional): Ideal for thickening the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance all the flavors.
- Cooked rice: The perfect bed to soak up the sauce and complete the meal.
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 until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy inside with a beautiful caramelized outside. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the veggies.
Step 2: Build the Aromatics
In the same skillet, pour in the second tablespoon of olive oil to keep all the delicious flavors in one pan. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for just 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll know this step is done when your kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma that hints at what’s to come.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Next, toss in those bright green broccoli florets and stir-fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes. The goal is to keep the broccoli tender-crisp, so it still has a nice bite and that beautiful fresh snap to it. This texture contrast is key to making your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe truly delightful.
Step 4: Whisk and Add the Sauce
While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour this sauce mixture over the broccoli in your skillet and give it a good toss so every floret gets coated in that shiny, flavorful glaze. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce just enough to cling lovingly to each ingredient.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together to combine those vibrant green bites with tender chicken and the glossy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce thickens to the perfect consistency. A quick taste test now and you can season with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve Over Rice
Finally, spoon your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe over a steaming bed of cooked rice. The rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, making each forkful comforting and flavorful. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate this dish instantly. Try sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and a subtle crunch. A light drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add an exciting kick and brighten the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Steamed jasmine rice is the classic choice, but you could also serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or pair it alongside a crisp Asian slaw to add even more texture and freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or family? Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in vibrant individual bowls topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. You could also load it up inside warm lettuce cups for a fun and handheld twist that’s great for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and rice together helps maintain the flavors, but if you prefer firmer broccoli, store the rice separately and mix them when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not always ideal as the texture of broccoli might change slightly after thawing. If you do freeze it, portion into freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months for best quality. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best taste.
Reheating
Reheat the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally so the sauce doesn’t stick or burn. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make the broccoli mushy, but in a pinch, short bursts of microwave time work too.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli gives the best texture for the stir fry, frozen broccoli can be used if you’re in a pinch. Just thaw and pat it dry before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture that can make the dish soggy.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Make sure other ingredients like rice vinegar are gluten-free as well to keep the dish safe for sensitive diets.
Can I substitute chicken for another protein?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can use thinly sliced beef, shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure perfect doneness.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or a diced fresh chili when sautéing the garlic and ginger. This adds warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Why do you recommend corn starch in the sauce?
Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, giving it that beautiful clingy quality that coats the chicken and broccoli evenly. It’s optional but highly recommended for a restaurant-style finish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is one of those magical dishes that delivers comfort, freshness, and incredible flavor all in a flash. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep returning to whenever you need a quick meal that feels home-cooked and wholesome. So grab your wok, chop your ingredients, and dive into this delightful stir fry — your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender strips of chicken breast are sautéed with fresh broccoli florets, garlic, and ginger, then tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made from low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Served over steamed rice, this dish combines vibrant textures and balanced flavors for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Serving
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger for 1-2 minutes until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Cook broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, keeping them tender-crisp with a vibrant green color.
- Prepare sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch (if using) until fully combined.
- Combine and thicken: Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir well to coat. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken and broccoli stir fry hot over cooked rice.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 2 teaspoons and mix well before adding.
- Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier or low-carb option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
