There’s nothing quite like a quick and flavorful stir fry to satisfy your dinner cravings without spending too much time in the kitchen. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic for a reason — it’s loaded with juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings it all together. This dish is not only easy to make but also nutritious, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a healthy lunch.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Why Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a Favorite
The beauty of this stir fry lies in its simplicity. With tender chicken and crisp broccoli, you get a meal that’s full of fresh, bold flavors in every bite. The savory sauce, typically made with soy sauce and garlic, adds just the right balance of umami and a hint of sweetness, making it a dish that both kids and adults will love.
The stir fry technique keeps the chicken moist while allowing the broccoli to retain its bite, creating a delightful combination of textures. Plus, stir-frying is a quick cooking method, meaning you can get this meal on the table in less than 30 minutes, perfect for when time is short but you still want something homemade and delicious.
Ingredients Note:
- Soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness to the dish, acting as a flavorful base for the stir-fry sauce.
- Corn starch: Thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy and smooth consistency that coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Chicken breasts: The protein of the dish, adds substance and texture. It soaks up the flavors from the sauce and provides a tender bite when stir-fried.
- Broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that balances the savory components. It also provides vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor, giving the dish a distinct depth of flavor typical of Asian-inspired stir-fries.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Steamed Rice: For a classic take, serve the chicken and broccoli stir-fried over steamed white or brown rice. The rice soaks up the savory sauce and pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crunchy broccoli.
- With Noodles: If you’re a noodle fan, this stir fry is great with stir-fried noodles or even tossed over simple boiled noodles. The sauce clings to the noodles, making each bite packed with flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lighter or low-carb version, serve it on its own or over cauliflower rice. It’s just as filling and flavorful without the extra carbs.
Best Tips for Perfect Stir Fry
- Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, fresh broccoli will give you the best texture. Its natural crunch is a great contrast to the tender chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When stir-frying, it’s important to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps the chicken and broccoli cook evenly and ensures that everything gets a nice sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, marinating the chicken for 15-20 minutes in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil will give the dish extra depth.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch to the sauce mixture before cooking. If you like a lighter sauce, a little water or chicken broth can be added to thin it out.
Serve Immediately:
Stir fry dishes are best served fresh and hot, straight from the pan. This way, you’ll enjoy the crisp texture of the broccoli and the tender, juicy chicken at its best.
A Balanced Meal in No Time
With its bold flavors and minimal prep time, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is the ultimate go-to dish when you want something that’s both healthy and tasty. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or to enjoy on its own, and the simple cooking process makes it a perfect option for any level of home cook. So, next time you’re looking for a meal that delivers big on flavor but light on effort, give this stir fry a try — you won’t be disappointed!
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
Creamy Tuscan Orzo
Creamy White Chicken Chili
Honey Lemon Chicken
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce or to taste
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Argo® Corn Starch
- 2/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 Tbsp honey
- 1 Tbsp packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut int 1-inch cubes
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil or light olive oil
- 1/2 cup just white and light green portion sliced green onions
- 1 Tbsp peeled and minced ginger
- 1 Tbsp peeled and minced garlic
- 5 cups small broccoli florets
- 3 Tbsp water
- Sesame seeds for serving (optional)
- White or brown rice for serving
Instructions
- Whisk the soy sauce and cornstarch together in a medium mixing dish. Set aside, add the chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Heat 1 Tbsp of vegetable oil over fairly high heat in a 12-inch non-stick skillet. Dab the chicken dry with paper towels and add a single layer to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken until the center registers 165, approximately 7 minutes, turning halfway through. To keep warm, switch to a sheet of aluminum foil and wrap.
- Slightly reduce the temperature of the burner, heat the remaining 2 Tbsp of oil in a skillet that is now clean. Add the green onions, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add the broccoli and water and sauté until tender, around 5 minutes, adding 1-2 tablespoons of water as necessary.
- Once again, stir the soy sauce mixture and pour it into the skillet. Cook until the sauce has thickened, stirring constantly, around 2 minutes longer.
- Add in the chicken and any juices that have accumulated. Toss well. Serve warm over sesame seeds sprinkled with rice.
Notes
- This stir-fry reheats well. You could reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with the lid on.
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Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry