Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry will quickly become one of your favorites. It’s a simple dish that brings together tender strips of chicken breast, crisp broccoli florets, and a savory sauce bursting with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, it pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice or your choice of noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. The chicken cooks quickly, staying juicy and tender, while the broccoli retains its satisfying crunch. The ginger and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic depth, and the sauce, made with soy, chicken broth, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar, ties everything together with a savory-sweet finish.

What makes this recipe a kitchen winner is its simplicity and speed — it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, the straightforward steps ensure success every time. It’s also an excellent way to sneak in some greens without compromising on taste. This dish is perfect when you want a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

How To Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, and sugar. Whisk everything together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Set it aside while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic, Ginger, and Broccoli

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then add the broccoli florets and stir well to coat them with the garlicky ginger oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the broccoli turns bright green and is just tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the broccoli. Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired for an extra pop of flavor and color. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Cut chicken breasts into uniform thin strips to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the most vibrant flavor — pre-minced options don’t pack the same punch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
• Broccoli cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to retain that perfect crunch.
• Mix the cornstarch with cold chicken broth before adding it to the hot pan to prevent lumps in the sauce.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in half the soy sauce before cooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
• Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle toasted cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds on top for crunch.
• Swap Protein: Use thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken for different takes.
• Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for a fresh herbal twist.
• Sauce Variations: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for extra complexity.

Dietary Adaptations

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry is naturally gluten-friendly if you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. For a lower-carb version, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles. To make it vegetarian or vegan, replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The recipe is also free from dairy and nuts by default, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well — freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Leftover rice should be stored separately to maintain the best texture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for this stir-fry?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid sogginess.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons, but mix it well with the liquid before adding to the pan to avoid lumps.

Is it necessary to use sesame oil?

While sesame oil adds a signature nutty aroma and flavor, you can omit it or substitute with another oil if you don’t have it on hand. Just add a small amount for flavor.

What’s the best way to cut chicken for stir-fry?

Cut the chicken breasts into thin, uniform strips against the grain. This helps the chicken cook quickly and stay tender.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry is a quick, tasty, and versatile meal that fits perfectly into busy lives. With fresh ingredients and a simple homemade sauce, it delivers bold flavors without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe is easy to scale and customize to your liking. Next time you want a satisfying dinner that’s both wholesome and delicious, give this stir-fry a try — it just might become your go-to weeknight favorite.

Share on Pinterest