Some meals are just the perfect combination of healthy, delicious, and fast. This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is one of them. It’s a classic for a reason: tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli are tossed in a savory, simple sauce that’s full of flavor. This recipe comes together in a single skillet and is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for a busy weeknight. It’s a meal that feels both wholesome and satisfying, and it’s a great way to get a taste of your favorite takeout meal at home.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of one-pan meals, and this stir-fry is a prime example of how you can create a complex, delicious dish with minimal fuss. What I love most is the incredible flavor of the sauce. The combination of savory soy sauce, a little sweetness from the sugar, and the aromatic kick of fresh garlic and ginger creates a sauce that coats every single piece of chicken and broccoli. The cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce beautifully, so it clings to everything perfectly. It’s a meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and is always a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger
- 1 cup chicken broth, divided
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon oil for cooking (or cooking spray)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this stir-fry. Sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas would all be a great addition.
- Sauce: For a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Broth: Using a low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken and Aromatics: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season it with salt and pepper. Prepare the garlic and ginger.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet or a wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, garlic, and ginger and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add the Sauce: Add 3/4 cup of the chicken broth, the soy sauce, and the sugar to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring twice, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is crisp-tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Stir this mixture into the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and broccoli stir-fry hot, over a bed of rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat. Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the chicken.
- Prep Your Ingredients: Have all of your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast process, and you don’t want to be scrambling to chop vegetables while things are cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken or the broccoli. The chicken should be tender and juicy, and the broccoli should still have a nice crisp-tender bite.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This stir-fry is a complete meal on its own, especially served over a bed of jasmine rice or noodles. It pairs beautifully with a side of my Light and Tangy Chicken Salad for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Please note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
- Calories: Approx. 300 kcal
- Protein: Approx. 30g
- Fat: Approx. 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 20g
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftovers of this stir-fry store well. You can place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can simply microwave it. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you love a good, hearty chicken dish, you’ll love these other recipes from my kitchen:
- For a similar one-pan wonder, this Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
- For a simple and delicious appetizer, my Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders are always a hit.
- For a cozy, hearty bowl of southern comfort, you have to try my Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo.
- And when you’re feeding a crowd, these Chicken Enchiladas are a true go-to.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect example of a meal that is both simple and satisfying. It’s a fantastic way to get a healthy, flavorful, and quick dinner on the table.
I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with it as much as I have! Let me know in the comments below what you thought! Happy cooking!
