This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is your go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal! It’s packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory, sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir fry comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome dinner without the fuss. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein to keep things exciting!
Why you will love this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry…
🧑🍳 Tips for Perfecting the Dish
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts ,boneless, skinless, sliced thin
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic ,minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger ,grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup cold water
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 onions ,sliced for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds ,for garnish
Instructions
Ingredients
Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the chicken breasts thinly and set aside.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, and cold water. Set aside. Quick tip: Always dissolve cornstarch in cold water before adding it to hot liquids. This ensures it mixes well and thickens your sauce or stir fry evenly.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Stir Fry the Broccoli
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Note: If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely, drain any excess water, and pat dry with paper towels.
Combine and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Pour in the sauce mixture and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Serve
- Drizzle with sesame oil.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition
Benefits of Making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a fantastic dish for several reasons. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This dish is also healthy, packed with lean protein from the chicken and essential vitamins and fiber from the broccoli.
Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and sauces. The deliciously savory flavors and satisfying textures make it a family favorite that’s bound to please even the pickiest eaters.
Choosing the Right Chicken and Vegetables
Selecting the right chicken and vegetables is crucial for the best results when making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs, as they cook quickly and stay tender.
Fresh broccoli florets are ideal, but you can also use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable. Consider incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
How do Chinese restaurants get broccoli so crispy?
Here are a few tips to ensure your broccoli is perfectly cooked in your stir fry:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure your broccoli florets are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- High Heat: Stir fry on high heat to achieve a nice sear and maintain the crispness of the broccoli.
- Timing: Add the broccoli a few minutes after any proteins to avoid overcooking it. Usually, 3-4 minutes is sufficient for tender-crisp broccoli.
- Use a wok for optimal results. A wok’s design is ideal for stir-frying. The high heat concentrates at the bottom, allowing you to sear the ingredients quickly. The sloping sides also make it easier to toss the food with minimal sticking, ensuring the broccoli florets cook evenly without getting mushy.
If you prefer your broccoli softer, you can blanch it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before stir-frying. This is optional and depends on your texture preference.
Exploring Different Sauce Recipes
The sauce is the heart of any stir fry. You can experiment with different combinations of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Some people like to add a bit of rice vinegar or mirin for a hint of sweetness and acidity.
Storing Leftovers
How to Properly Store Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can last for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
To reheat, warm the stir fry in a pan over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the stir fry looks dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
What to Serve Alongside Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles. For a low-carb option, this dish also pairs well with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Ideas for Garnishes and Toppings
For added texture and flavor, top your stir fry with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed peanuts. A squeeze of fresh lime or a drizzle of sriracha can also enhance the dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it before cooking, and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the stir fry soggy.
Should you cook broccoli before stir-frying?
You don’t need to cook broccoli before stir-frying it. Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that will tenderize the broccoli while keeping it crisp.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This stir fry is versatile and can be made with beef, shrimp, or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How long will chicken and broccoli stir fry last in the fridge?
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry will last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not just a meal; it’s a time-saver, a health-booster, and a flavor-packed dish that will make your weeknight dinners delightful. With its quick preparation, customizable nature, and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
