There’s something about a quick and colorful Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry that instantly brightens up a weeknight dinner. Imagine the vibrant green of broccoli sautéing alongside tender pieces of chicken, all enveloped in a glossy sauce bursting with sweet and tangy flavors.
I stumbled upon this lively dish one evening when I needed something fast yet satisfying. With simple ingredients and under 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe not only brings a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the table, but it’s also a breeze to customize. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to match your taste buds.
If you’ve been stuck in a fast food rut, this stir-fry is your ticket to a wholesome, home-cooked meal that the whole family will love. So let’s dive into this easy, savory delight that promises to elevate your dining experience!
Why Love This Chicken & Broccoli Recipe?
Simplicity makes it a true weeknight hero—ready in under 30 minutes!
Customizable options allow you to swap in any favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring every bite feels unique.
Healthy choice packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free dinner for the entire family.
Flavor explosion from the savory sauce combines sweet and tangy elements, leaving everyone wanting more!
Leftover friendly, this dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness with a dish that transforms your dinners from routine to extraordinary!
Chicken & Broccoli Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- Chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breasts) – A hearty source of protein; substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Broccoli – Adds vibrant color and crunch; swap with cauliflower or snap peas for delicious variations.
- Garlic cloves – A flavor powerhouse that infuses aroma and taste; use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Acts as a liquid base for the sauce; ensure moisture and richness—vegetable broth is a great lighter option!
- Reduced-sodium soy sauce – Provides essential umami flavor; tamari can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Honey – Adds just the right sweetness to balance the savory notes; maple syrup is perfect for vegan alternatives.
- Cornstarch – Serves as a thickening agent; arrowroot can be used if you need an alternative.
- Ginger (finely grated) – Enhances the dish with its spicy, aromatic goodness; ground ginger works in a pinch.
- Toasted sesame oil – Introduces a nutty flavor that elevates the dish; substitute with olive oil if necessary.
- Neutral oil – Ideal for cooking the chicken, it prevents sticking; canola oil makes a wonderful replacement.
- Cooked brown or white rice – A satisfying base for serving; quinoa is great if you want a gluten-free option.
- Toasted sesame seeds – Perfect garnish that adds flavor and crunch; feel free to substitute with chopped nuts if allergic.
Embrace these ingredients for a delightful Chicken & Broccoli stir-fry that will make your weeknight dinners a breeze!
How to Make Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
-
Prepare Sauce: Whisk together the garlic, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a bowl until fully combined and smooth. This sauce is the heart of your dish!
-
Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a splash of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
-
Steam Broccoli: In the same skillet, pour in the sauce mixture, then add the broccoli. Cover with a lid and steam for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
-
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it with the broccoli and sauce until everything is well coated and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Serve: Plate the stir-fry over a bed of warm rice and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Enjoy this delightful, homemade meal!
Optional: Drizzle with additional sesame oil for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken & Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this dish to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.
- Protein Swap: Change the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation in flavor and texture.
- Colorful Mix: Add vibrant bell peppers or crunchy carrots for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you crave extra heat in every bite.
- Noodle Time: Swap out the rice for brown rice noodles for a fun twist that adds a chewy texture.
- Alternative Sauce: Kick it up a notch by using hoisin sauce or teriyaki for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Toss in a handful of cashews or peanuts for an extra crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
- Zero Calorie Sweet: Substitute honey with a low-calorie sweetener for a lighter version that still tastes great.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic freshness that brings this dish to life.
With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Enjoy making this dish truly yours.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry components are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your broccoli and marinate the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain quality, store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the sauce separately and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply sauté the chicken until golden, steam the broccoli with the sauce for about 4 minutes, and toss everything together. You’ll have a home-cooked meal that tastes just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken & Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry tastes great even reheated!
Freezer: You can freeze the stir-fry for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and be sure to remove excess air.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating it on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water to prevent sticking and to revive the sauce.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving this dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Expert Tips for Chicken & Broccoli
-
Check Your Sauces: Always whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly to prevent any lumps from the cornstarch that could ruin your Chicken & Broccoli.
-
Chicken Prep Perfection: Marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 15 minutes enhances the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip this for a taste boost!
-
Broccoli Cooking Time: If you’re using frozen broccoli, remember to reduce the cooking time to avoid mushiness and maintain that delightful crunch.
-
Custom Sauce Thickness: Adjust the sauce’s consistency based on your preference. Add more water to thin it or extra cornstarch to thicken it.
-
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and exciting flavors in your Chicken & Broccoli stir-fry.
-
Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days, making for an easy and delicious meal later on!
What to Serve with Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Serving up a delightful stir-fry is just the beginning; let’s create a complete meal experience that’s sure to impress!
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, adding a lovely aroma to your meal.
-
Crispy Egg Rolls: These golden bites provide a satisfying crunch and a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and broccoli.
-
Garlic Green Beans: The garlicky, tender snap of green beans elevates the dish with freshness and adds vibrant color to your plate.
-
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a hint of lime balances the warm stir-fry, with crispy cucumbers offering a crunchy bite.
-
Miso Soup: This gentle, comforting broth enhances the meal, wrapped in umami goodness while neatly offsetting the richer flavors of the stir-fry.
-
Coconut Milk Dessert: A light, creamy dessert infused with coconut flavors softly concludes the meal, providing a sweet balance to the savory notes.
With these accompaniments, you’re sure to transform the Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry into a complete and satisfying family feast!
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my stir-fry?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, opt for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner. Look for chicken that’s pink and firm to the touch, avoiding any with dark spots or an off smell.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When stored properly, this Chicken & Broccoli stir-fry retains its deliciousness! Just give it a quick reheat on the stove to revive the flavors.
Can I freeze Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! To do so, place the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help revive the sauce.
My stir-fry sauce is too thick, how can I fix it?
Very easily! If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, you can thin it out by adding a little water or chicken broth. Do this slowly, adding a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well after each addition to make sure it’s well combined.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you or someone you’re cooking for has allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce and honey. You can substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option and use maple syrup for a vegan alternative. Always check the labels of your ingredients for any potential allergens!
How can I make this dish healthier?
I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to increase fiber. You can also choose brown rice for a whole grain option or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Enjoy the flexibility of this Chicken & Broccoli stir-fry while maintaining a healthy diet!
Savory Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry for Quick Weeknight Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the garlic, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a bowl until fully combined and smooth.
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the sauce mixture, then add the broccoli. Cover with a lid and steam for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it with the broccoli and sauce until well coated and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Plate the stir-fry over a bed of warm rice and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.