If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a weekday night, this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It seamlessly blends tender chicken pieces with vibrant, crisp broccoli, all coated in a luscious, savory-sweet sauce. The combination of garlic, ginger, and a hint of chili flakes creates layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy schedule but special enough to make you feel like a kitchen superstar. Trust me, once you make this, it might just become your go-to meal for weeknights and weekend dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe comes from a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the savory depth of the soy sauce or the fresh zing provided by ginger and scallions.
- Chicken broth: Adds a rich, savory base that keeps the sauce moist and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Low sodium soy sauce: Brings that classic umami punch and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
- Sugar: Balances the salty and acidic flavors to create a perfectly rounded sauce.
- Sesame oil: Offers a nutty aroma and depth that elevates the entire dish.
- Sherry vinegar: Injects a mild acidity that brightens the stir fry beautifully.
- Garlic (minced): Delivers a bold, aromatic note essential for an authentic stir fry flavor.
- Minced ginger: Adds warmth and a gentle spice that complements the garlic perfectly.
- Red chili flakes (optional): For those who want a little extra kick of heat.
- White pepper: Slightly different from black pepper, it adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces): The star protein, tender and quick-cooking, perfect for stir frying.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning essentials to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Cornstarch: Coats the chicken to create a light crust and helps thicken the sauce.
- Scallions (sliced, greens and whites separated): Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
- Oil: Needed to get that perfect sear on the chicken and to sauté the veggies.
- Broccoli florets: Provide crunch and vibrant green color, making the dish visually appealing and nutritious.
- Sesame seeds (optional): These add a lovely nutty crunch and visual interest when sprinkled on top.
- Cooked jasmine rice: The perfect fluffy base to soak up every bit of that irresistible sauce.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the sauce
Start by whisking together chicken broth, low sodium soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, sherry vinegar, garlic, ginger, red chili flakes (if using), and white pepper in a small bowl. Setting the sauce aside allows the flavors to meld while you prep the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Season and coat the chicken
In a large bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. This coating will help the chicken develop a golden, crispy exterior when cooked, locking in juices and adding texture.
Step 3: Heat the pan and cook the chicken
Warm two tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer for even cooking and sear them for about four minutes on each side until they turn beautifully golden brown.
Step 4: Add scallion whites
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the white parts of the scallions. Cook for 30 seconds to a minute; this quick sauté will release their sweet and mild onion flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Step 5: Incorporate sauce and broccoli
Give your sauce another quick whisk and pour it into the skillet along with the vibrant broccoli florets. Keep stirring regularly as the sauce thickens and the broccoli softens to tender-crisp perfection. This step lets the broccoli soak up all those delicious flavors while retaining a nice crunch.
Step 6: Final touches
When the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is just tender, you’re ready to serve. The balance of textures and flavors in this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is truly something special at this point.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely finish, sprinkle the stir fry with the green parts of the scallions and a generous pinch of sesame seeds. This adds a pop of color, a hint of brightness, and a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire experience.
Side Dishes
Serving this dish over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice is a classic choice that soaks up every drop of the savory sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully as well, keeping the meal light without sacrificing flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in warm lettuce cups. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy all the flavors with an added crunch. Alternatively, stuffing it into warm pita bread with a drizzle of extra sauce can turn it into a quick and delicious wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days, making it a perfect option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover stir fry by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to two months. Just remember that broccoli texture can soften after freezing, so it’s ideal for reheating with extra fresh veggies added if desired.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and avoid overcooking the broccoli. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and bring back that freshly cooked moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but aim to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture that might dilute the sauce. Fresh broccoli is ideal for the best texture and vibrant color.
Is chicken breast the only meat option?
While chicken breast is perfect for quick cooking and tenderness, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How spicy is this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe?
The spice level is mild by default, thanks to just a pinch of red chili flakes which are optional. You can easily adjust the heat up or down based on your preference by adding more chili flakes or skipping them altogether.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and verify that your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, you’ll still get all the delicious flavor without worrying about gluten.
What’s the best way to get a crispy texture on the chicken?
Coating the chicken in cornstarch and searing it over medium heat without overcrowding the pan helps achieve that lovely golden crust. Make sure to flip carefully and don’t disturb the chicken too much while it cooks.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe truly brings together simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving something comforting after a long day, it’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor without complicating your kitchen time. Give it a try, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner!
Print
Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender chicken breast, crisp broccoli florets, and a savory sauce made with soy, garlic, and ginger. Cooked in a skillet for a delightful golden sear on the chicken, this dish is perfect served over jasmine rice and garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for an extra crunch and fresh finish.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- pinch red chili flakes (optional)
- pinch white pepper
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 scallions (sliced, greens and whites separated)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 cups broccoli florets
For Serving
- sesame seeds (optional)
- cooked jasmine rice
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, low sodium soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, sherry vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, red chili flakes (if using), and white pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
- Heat the pan and oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer to the skillet. Cook without moving them for about 4 minutes per side, allowing the chicken to develop a golden brown crust and to cook through.
- Add the scallion whites: Stir in the white parts of the scallions and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute to release their flavor.
- Incorporate sauce and broccoli: Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk and pour it into the skillet along with the broccoli florets. Cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and the broccoli becomes tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Serve the stir fry over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with the green parts of the scallions and optional sesame seeds to add texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili flakes.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken; cook in batches if necessary for a better sear.
- Substitute broccoli with other sturdy vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers if preferred.
- This recipe can be adapted to a gluten-free diet by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
