Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a lightning-fast dinner that packs a punch of flavor and feels like a restaurant treat right at your own table, you’ll fall in love with this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and a glossy, savory-sweet sauce come together in less time than it takes to order take-out! This is one of those satisfying recipes that handles your protein and veggies in one skillet, making it a weeknight hero you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is how easily it comes together with just a handful of staple ingredients. Every component serves a delicious purpose, whether it’s infusing aromatic depth, adding a hint of sweetness, or transforming the texture from simple to spectacular.

• Chicken breasts: Slicing these thinly ensures quick, juicy cooking and that each bite gets beautifully coated in that bold sauce.
• Broccoli florets: Choose fresh florets for bright color and a satisfying crunch, or use frozen in a pinch (just thaw and drain first).
• Vegetable oil: Divided for searing both the chicken and veggies, giving them a golden edge without sticking to your pan.
• Garlic: Minced for a savory boost that fills the kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma.
• Ginger: Grated fresh ginger adds a warming, zesty kick that lifts the whole dish.
• Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances saltiness and depth, letting you control the final seasoning of your stir fry.
• Oyster sauce: Adds a rich, umami undertone that makes the sauce taste restaurant-quality.
• Honey: A subtle touch of sweetness helps round out all the savory and salty notes.
• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce so it clings to every piece of chicken and broccoli.
• Chicken broth: Provides savory body to the sauce, highlighting all those bold flavors.
• Sesame oil: Just a drizzle infuses a nutty fragrance that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions: Totally optional, but they make for a gorgeous, flavorful garnish.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce

Start by making the star of this dish: the luscious sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sesame oil. This combination creates a savory, slightly sweet mixture that will thicken into a glossy coating for your chicken and broccoli. Set the sauce aside and get ready for the next delicious step.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the sliced chicken, and let it sizzle, stirring occasionally for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s golden all over and cooked through. Once your chicken is perfectly tender, scoop it out of the pan and set it aside for just a bit. This little break will make sure your meat stays juicy and lets you focus on those vibrant veggies!

Step 3: Stir Fry the Broccoli, Garlic, and Ginger

With your pan still hot, add the remaining vegetable oil, along with the garlic and ginger. Let them cook for just a moment, until fragrant, then add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry everything together for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the broccoli turns bright green and tender-crisp—you want it to keep some bite and that lovely pop of color!

Step 4: Combine Everything and Add the Sauce

Now, return your cooked chicken to the pan with the broccoli. Give your sauce one last whisk, then pour it in, stirring constantly. In a couple minutes, the sauce will bubble, thicken, and beautifully glaze every piece of chicken and broccoli. As soon as everything is coated and glossy, your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is officially ready!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with a flourish—sprinkle just-toasted sesame seeds and a tumble of fresh sliced green onions over the top. Not only do these garnishes make the dish look absolutely irresistible, but they also add pops of crunch and a burst of fresh, savory flavor. A few extra chili flakes are also delicious if you like a little heat!

Side Dishes

This stir fry is a superstar on its own, but it truly shines over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, tender noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. If you want to round out the meal, a crisp side salad with a light sesame dressing or simple miso soup makes for a perfect pairing. You really can’t go wrong!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun change of pace, try serving Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry in lettuce cups for a hand-held option, or nestle it inside fresh Asian steamed buns. You can even pile it onto a big platter as part of a colorful stir fry bar, letting everyone mix and match with their favorite rice, noodles, or extra veggies. Presentation is half the fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is just as tasty the next day! Simply let any leftovers cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and you’ll have a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go—perfect for busy schedules.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your stir fry, portion it into freezer-safe containers (without the optional garnishes) and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture. The broccoli may soften a little but will still offer plenty of flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also use the microwave, just heat in short bursts and stir well to keep everything evenly heated and saucy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a little extra richness and stay very tender—just slice them thin so they cook quickly, just as you would with chicken breasts.

What other vegetables can I add to this stir fry?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn all work beautifully. The Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a flexible canvas for your favorite veggies.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce or need a vegetarian version, substitute with hoisin sauce or a splash more soy sauce mixed with a couple teaspoons of brown sugar for depth.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, along with a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative. Always check ingredient labels if gluten is a concern.

How do I avoid overcooking the broccoli?

For vibrant color and a bit of crunch, only cook the broccoli until it’s just bright and tender-crisp. Keep a close eye on the pan and stir regularly—it cooks up fast!

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about sharing a dish that hits all the right notes: quick, nourishing, crowd-pleasing, and full of bold flavor. Whether you’re new to stir fries or already a pro, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and let yourself savor just how easy and delicious homemade can be!

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