Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a timeless, vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory-sweet sauce to create an irresistible meal. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing taste. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re craving a wholesome dinner or looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry delivers on all fronts.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a balanced meal.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering glaze.
• Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
• Minimal Cleanup: One-pan cooking means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

What to Buy

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes for quick and even cooking.
• Broccoli Florets: 5 cups of small florets for the perfect crunch.
• Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons, or to taste. Choose low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Argo Corn Starch: 1 1/2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 2/3 cup, adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
• Honey: 1 1/2 tablespoons, balances the savory flavors with natural sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon, packed for a richer sweet note.
• Rice Vinegar: 1 1/2 teaspoons, introduces a subtle tanginess.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon, for that signature nutty aroma.
• Vegetable Oil or Light Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, for stir-frying.
• Green Onions: 1/2 cup chopped, using only the white and light green portions for fresh flavor.
• Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon peeled and minced, adds a spicy, bright kick.
• Garlic: 1 tablespoon peeled and minced, essential for that savory depth.
• Water: 3 tablespoons, helps adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Sesame Seeds: Optional, for garnish and a subtle crunch.
• White or Brown Rice: For serving, to complement the stir fry and soak up the sauce.

Equipment & Tools

• Large Skillet or Wok: Ideal for high-heat cooking and tossing ingredients evenly.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For prepping chicken, broccoli, and aromatics.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients and tossing chicken in cornstarch.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and turning the stir fry without scratching cookware.
• Serving Dish: To present your beautiful Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry.

Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or to taste), 1 1/2 tablespoons Argo corn starch, 2/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 1 1/2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Set this flavorful sauce mixture aside as it will bring everything together.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Toss the chicken pieces in the prepared sauce mixture, ensuring each piece is lightly coated with the cornstarch. This will help lock in moisture and create a glossy finish in the stir fry.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or light olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup chopped green onions (white and light green portions only), 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Increase the heat to high and add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Sauce

Add 5 cups of small broccoli florets to the skillet along with 3 tablespoons of water. Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Stir everything together and cover the pan with a lid for 3-4 minutes. This steams the broccoli just enough to keep it bright green and crisp-tender.

Step 6: Final Stir and Serve

Remove the lid, give everything a good stir to coat the broccoli and chicken evenly with the sauce. Cook uncovered for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry hot over freshly cooked white or brown rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired for a beautiful finishing touch.

What to Use Instead

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts.
• Coconut Aminos: A soy-free substitute for soy sauce with a slightly sweet flavor.
• Arrowroot Powder: Can replace cornstarch as a thickener in the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Instead of rice vinegar, for a tangy twist.
• Broccoli Rabe or Asparagus: For a different vegetable option with similar texture.

Little Things that Matter

• Make sure to cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic — they elevate the flavor unlike powders.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of stir-frying.
• Adjust soy sauce quantity to your taste, especially if using regular instead of low-sodium.
• Toast sesame seeds lightly before garnishing for enhanced nuttiness.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Popular Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari sauce, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, so no changes needed there.

What’s the best way to get tender chicken without it drying out?

Cutting chicken into bite-sized cubes ensures quick, even cooking. Tossing them in cornstarch helps seal moisture. Also, cooking on high heat without overcooking keeps the chicken juicy.

Can I use frozen broccoli florets?

While fresh broccoli is best for texture and flavor, frozen florets can be used in a pinch. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding to avoid a soggy stir fry.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or drizzle in some chili garlic sauce when cooking the aromatics to bring a nice heat to your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry – Another quick, flavorful chicken stir fry with a classic teriyaki glaze.
• Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs With Pineapple – A juicy, oven-baked chicken dish with a sweet and tangy twist.

Bring It to the Table

When serving this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, consider pairing it with fluffy steamed rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and an extra sprinkle of chopped green onions for freshness. A side of simple cucumber salad or pickled vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. This dish also pairs beautifully with light, crisp white wines or jasmine tea to complement the Asian-inspired flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. The harmony of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and the savory-sweet sauce makes every bite a delight. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and enjoy this quick, flavorful meal tonight!

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