Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Bring the flavors of your favorite takeout to the comfort of your kitchen with this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry! Tender chicken and vibrant broccoli are tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s packed with flavor. This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins—perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a healthier alternative to takeout, this stir fry delivers big on taste without sacrificing nutrition. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to earn rave reviews!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stir fry is a lifesaver for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll have a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and bold sauce come together in harmony, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stir fry:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (divided into ¾ cup and ¼ cup)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sugar

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Spray a 12-inch non-stick skillet with cooking spray and heat it over medium-high heat. A hot skillet ensures that your chicken gets a nice golden sear.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Aromatics

Add the chicken pieces, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the chicken starts to brown. This step builds the base of flavor for your dish.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Pour in ¾ cup of chicken broth, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together to combine. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and let the chicken simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining ¼ cup of chicken broth until smooth. Stir the mixture into the skillet and increase the heat slightly. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the stir fry hot. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor!

Tips for Success

  • Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
  • Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep an eye on the broccoli to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.
  • Prep Ahead: Chop the chicken, broccoli, ginger, and garlic in advance to speed up cooking time.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic add bold, aromatic flavors that elevate this dish.

Flavor Variations

This stir fry is easily customizable to suit your preferences:

  • Add Spice: Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Switch the Protein: Try shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
  • Boost the Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to refresh the sauce.

Freezing:

Freeze the cooked stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe—just thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet.

2. What’s the best way to cut chicken for stir fry?
Slice the chicken against the grain into bite-sized pieces for tender results.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. How do I avoid soggy stir fry?
Cook the chicken and broccoli in batches if needed, and don’t overcrowd the skillet.

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy option for busy nights. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and bold sauce come together in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re serving it for dinner or saving leftovers for lunch, this stir fry is a winner every time. So grab your skillet, prep your ingredients, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in just minutes!

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