Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Name: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Author: Tessa

Published: July 18, 2025

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Making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, which is exactly why it’s become a weeknight superhero in my kitchen. We all have those evenings, don’t we? The ones where you walk in the door, utterly exhausted, and the thought of cooking anything elaborate feels like climbing Mount Everest. That’s where this recipe truly shines. It’s my absolute favorite because it delivers incredible flavor, satisfying textures, and a wholesome meal in less time than it takes to decide on takeout. I first perfected this dish during a particularly busy season of life, and it quickly went from a simple meal idea to a cherished, reliable go-to. It’s wonderfully adaptable, incredibly quick, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Effortless & Fast: Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Flavorful & Satisfying: A delicious balance of savory, sweet, and umami in every bite.
Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and vibrant, healthy vegetables.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite additions and substitutions.

Quick and Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is truly a lifesaver for busy weeknights. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking time. It’s faster than ordering takeout and tastes so much fresher. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get a delicious, hot meal on the table.

Healthy and Delicious Meal

Beyond its speed, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a fantastic healthy option. It’s loaded with lean chicken breast, providing ample protein to keep you full and energized. The vibrant broccoli florets add essential vitamins, fiber, and a satisfying crunch, making it a well-rounded and incredibly tasty dish you can feel good about eating.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

For this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients. We’re talking about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking. You’ll also want 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, bright green and crisp. For the aromatic base, gather 2 cloves of garlic, minced, and 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, grated. The sauce comes together with 1/4 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/4 cup of chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Don’t forget 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking!

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry - detail 1

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Stir Fry

Each ingredient in this stir fry plays a vital role. The low sodium soy sauce brings that essential savory, umami depth without making it overly salty. Brown sugar balances this with a touch of sweetness and helps create a lovely glaze. And the fresh ginger? That’s where the magic happens, adding a warm, aromatic spice that truly defines the dish’s Asian-inspired flavor profile. These elements work together to build a sauce that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Making this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is incredibly straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. The key to a great stir fry is having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you even turn on the heat, as things move quickly once you start cooking. Don’t worry, it’s all about building layers of flavor efficiently!

Preparing Your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Sauce

First things first, let’s get that amazing sauce ready! In a small bowl, you’ll want to whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, chicken broth, and sesame oil. Whisk it well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and there are no lumps. This cornstarch is our secret weapon for a beautifully thick, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to your chicken and broccoli.

Cooking the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Now for the cooking! Heat your olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add your chicken pieces and cook them until they’re nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, usually about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet; stir-fry for just about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. Then, toss in your broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they’re tender-crisp – you want them bright green with a slight bite. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour in your prepared sauce, and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully. Serve hot!

Tips for a Fantastic Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Making a truly fantastic Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is all about smart choices and a little bit of flair! My biggest tip is always to prep everything before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves fast, and you don’t want to be chopping garlic while your chicken is burning. Also, don’t overcrowd your pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything gets a good sear instead of steaming. These small steps make a huge difference in taste and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

One of the best things about this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is how adaptable it is! If broccoli isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for snap peas, sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even green beans. For protein, thinly sliced beef or lamb can work wonderfully in place of chicken, just adjust cooking times slightly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand!

Flavor Boosters for Your Stir Fry

Want to kick up the flavor a notch in your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry? A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic and ginger will give it a lovely, subtle heat. For a deeper umami, a dash of fish sauce or a tiny bit of mushroom powder can work wonders. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving also brightens everything up beautifully!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Once your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is glistening and ready, the perfect accompaniment makes all the difference! My absolute favorite way to serve this is over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up all that delicious sauce. If you’re looking for something different, lo mein or ramen noodles are fantastic, or even quinoa for an extra protein boost. Don’t forget a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish!

Storing and Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

To keep your leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry fresh, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the sauce and prevent drying out. This method helps maintain the texture of the broccoli and chicken much better than a microwave.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry - detail 2

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

I get a lot of questions about this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, and I love hearing how you’re making it your own! Here are some of the most common things people ask me, along with my best advice. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have another question; I’m always happy to help you make this dish a success in your kitchen!

Can I use frozen broccoli in Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Absolutely, you can use frozen broccoli in your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry! Just be aware that it might release more water and become a bit softer than fresh. I recommend adding the frozen broccoli directly to the hot skillet, without thawing, and stir-frying for a few extra minutes until it’s tender-crisp. You might also want to drain any excess liquid before adding the sauce.

How can I make my Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry spicier?

If you love a little heat, there are several easy ways to make your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry spicier! My go-to is to add a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and ginger. You could also drizzle in some chili garlic sauce or sriracha during the last minute of cooking, or even serve it with a side of your favorite hot sauce for individual customization.

What kind of rice is best with Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

For me, the best rice with Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is typically jasmine rice or basmati rice. Their delicate, fluffy texture and mild aroma complement the stir fry’s flavors beautifully without overpowering them. However, brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and extra fiber if you prefer, and even short-grain white rice works well for a stickier texture. Honestly, whatever rice you love is the best rice!

Estimated Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate only. Values can vary significantly based on specific brands, exact measurements, and any substitutions made. Always consult a professional for precise dietary advice.

Your Turn to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Now that you have all my secrets, it’s your turn to unleash the deliciousness of this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry in your own kitchen! I promise, it’s easier and more rewarding than you think. Give it a try this week, and when you do, please come back and tell me all about it in the comments below. Did you try a new veggie? Add extra spice? I can’t wait to hear your culinary adventures and see your star ratings!