Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

A simple, healthy recipe featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and a rich homemade sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, this flavorful stir fry pairs beautifully with rice or noodles and is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables. Try this easy, restaurant-quality dish that’s packed with protein and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 2 Tbsp cooking oil (e.g., extra light olive oil), divided
• 1 lb broccoli florets (about 5 cups)
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced into strips
• 1/2 lb white button mushrooms, thickly sliced

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• 2/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 Tbsp light brown sugar or honey (to taste)
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 tsp garlic (about 2 cloves), grated
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, plus extra for seasoning

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Ensure the sugar and cornstarch dissolve completely (use warm broth for quicker dissolution). Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cut chicken into 3/4-inch pieces and season lightly with black pepper.
   • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
   • Place chicken in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed for 1 minute. Stir fry for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken to a bowl and cover loosely to keep warm.
3. Stir Fry the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
   • Add broccoli, onions, and mushrooms. Stir fry for about 3 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the broccoli is crisp-tender. Reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   • Stir the prepared sauce to re-incorporate any settled cornstarch, then pour it over the vegetables.
   • Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors of the garlic and ginger mellow. If the sauce becomes too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir to coat, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until everything is heated through.
   • Adjust soy sauce to taste if needed.
   • Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Healthier Takeout Alternative: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce without the extra sodium or additives.
• Customizable: Adjust the vegetables, protein, and sauce to suit your preferences.

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Tips

• Prep Ahead: Cut the chicken and vegetables and mix the sauce beforehand for an even quicker meal.
• Sear for Flavor: Let the chicken sit undisturbed for the first minute of cooking to develop a golden crust.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor significantly compared to powdered versions.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef strips, or tofu.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more variety.
• Gluten-Free: Use Tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with honey or omit for a less sweet sauce.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: The stir fry is best fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables separately from the sauce. Thaw and reheat with fresh sauce for best results.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

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Serving

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry over steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. Add a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete meal.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions for added flavor and texture.
• Pair with a light soup or salad for a wholesome dinner.
• Add a squeeze of lime for a fresh, tangy twist.