Name: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 3/4" pieces); 2 Tbsp cooking oil ((extra light olive oil works great)); 1 lb broccoli (cut into florets (about 5 cups)); 1 small yellow onion (sliced into strips); 1/2 lb white button mushrooms (thickly sliced); 2/3 cup low sodium chicken broth; 3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce ((use Tamari for gluten-free)); 2 Tbsp light brown sugar (packed (or honey to taste)); 1 Tbsp corn starch; 1 Tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp fresh ginger (peeled and grated); 1 tsp garlic ((2 small cloves, grated)); 1/4 tsp black pepper (plus more to season chicken)

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that packs a punch in flavor? Look no further! This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a go-to weeknight dinner that’s not only easy to prepare but also loaded with healthy ingredients. The tender pieces of chicken breast paired with crisp broccoli, earthy mushrooms, and a savory sauce create a dish that’s incredibly satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a homemade stir fry. It’s a versatile dish that allows for creativity while still being incredibly straightforward. This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry hits all the right notes—it’s packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and a sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies you might have lying around. The flavors are bright and fresh, and the textures are delightful, making it a dish that everyone in the family will love.

Ingredient Breakdown

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 3/4″ pieces – Lean and protein-rich, the chicken serves as the heart of this dish.
2 Tbsp cooking oil (extra light olive oil works great) – This is used for sautéing and adds a subtle flavor.
1 lb broccoli, cut into florets (about 5 cups) – Fresh and vibrant, broccoli is packed with nutrients and adds a nice crunch.
1 small yellow onion, sliced into strips – Sweet and aromatic, the onion adds depth to the dish.
1/2 lb white button mushrooms, thickly sliced – Earthy and rich, mushrooms enhance the umami flavor of the stir fry.
2/3 cup low sodium chicken broth – This helps create the savory sauce base without being overly salty.
3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (use Tamari for gluten-free) – Adds that iconic umami flavor that is essential in stir fry.
2 Tbsp light brown sugar, packed (or honey to taste) – A hint of sweetness balances the savory components.
1 Tbsp corn starch – This acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.
1 Tbsp sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and flavor, elevating the dish.
1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated – A spicy and aromatic addition that brightens up the flavors.
1 tsp garlic (2 small cloves), grated – Garlic adds an irresistible aroma and flavor.
1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to season chicken – A touch of heat that complements the other flavors.

Hardware & Gadgets

Large skillet or wok – Essential for stir frying and ensuring even cooking.
Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and tossing ingredients as they cook.
Cutting board and knife – To prep your chicken and vegetables efficiently.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.

Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, slicing the onion into strips, and chopping the broccoli into florets. Make sure to slice the mushrooms thickly to maintain their texture during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, add the chicken pieces and season with a pinch of black pepper. You can also add a tablespoon of soy sauce if you like. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the broccoli florets and mushrooms. Stir fry for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, light brown sugar, corn starch, sesame oil, grated ginger, and grated garlic in a small bowl. This will be your sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and serve the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry over a bed of rice or noodles. Enjoy the colorful presentation and the tantalizing aromas!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

Chicken: Substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: Use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Brown Sugar: Maple syrup can be used as a sweetener for a different flavor profile.
Mushrooms: If allergic, you can omit them or use bell peppers for added color and crunch.

Pro Perspective

The beauty of stir fry is its versatility. Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Also, adjusting the sauce to your taste is encouraged; if you prefer it sweeter, add more brown sugar or honey. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes works wonders!

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the stir fry from drying out. This dish also freezes well; simply place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option and can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the stir fry.

What can I serve with Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate sriracha sauce, red pepper flakes, or even sliced fresh chilies when cooking the vegetables.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is perfect for meal prepping. You can portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

In Closing

Incorporating a Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry into your weekly meal rotation not only makes dinner a breeze but also ensures you’re serving up something healthy and delicious. This dish brings together the best of flavors and textures—crunchy broccoli, tender chicken, and a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a stir fry that will become a family favorite in no time! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry!