Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Introduction & Inspiration

When I need a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or take forever to make, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is my go-to recipe. It’s quick, fresh, and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime I want a wholesome meal without a lot of fuss.

The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that makes everyone at the table happy.

Nostalgic Appeal

Growing up, stir fry dinners were a regular part of our weekly routine. I can still remember the sizzle of the hot pan, the smell of garlic and ginger, and the colorful pile of veggies and chicken coming together so quickly.

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry brings back all those warm memories of family meals around the dinner table, with a flavor that’s just as comforting now as it was then.

Homemade Focus

Making stir fry at home is one of the easiest ways to keep things healthy and delicious. I get to use fresh, simple ingredients, adjust the seasoning exactly how I like, and skip the heavy oils and additives you often find in takeout.

Homemade also means extra veggies, lean chicken, and a perfect balance of savory sauce with just a hint of sweetness.

Flavor Goal

My goal for this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry was to create a dish that’s rich, savory, and perfectly balanced with a little crunch from the veggies and juicy, tender chicken pieces.

The oyster sauce gives the dish depth, the sesame oil brings a hint of nuttiness, and the garlic and ginger infuse every bite with irresistible aroma and warmth.

Ingredient Insights

Chicken breast keeps the stir fry lean and full of protein while absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Broccoli adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and loads of vitamins.

Mushrooms bring an earthy richness, and the oyster sauce gives that classic umami flavor that makes stir fry so addictive. Fresh garlic and ginger are essential for brightening the whole dish and bringing it to life.

A splash of sesame oil at the end ties everything together with a warm, toasty finish.

Essential Equipment

You’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:

• A large frying pan or wok
• A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• A sharp knife for chopping the chicken and vegetables

Simple equipment for a spectacular meal.

Ingredients with Measurements

For the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups small broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (or extra broccoli if you prefer)
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup oyster sauce
• ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli and mushrooms and cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Stir in the ginger and garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the pan and keep them warm on a plate.

Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil.

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place them in the pan in a single layer, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Return the vegetables to the pan and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so the vegetables warm through.

In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, chicken broth, sugar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry.

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir well, bringing everything to a boil until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.

Serve immediately over rice if desired.

Troubleshooting

If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out slightly. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken so it sears nicely and doesn’t steam.

For the most flavorful results, always use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered versions.

Tips and Variations

Swap out the chicken breast for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier result. Add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for even more color and nutrition.

If you like things spicy, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

For a low-carb option, serve this stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with freshly steamed jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or even noodles for a heartier meal.

It’s also delicious paired with a crisp cucumber salad or simple miso soup for a full Asian-inspired dinner.

A refreshing green tea or light white wine like Riesling complements the meal beautifully.

Nutritional Information

This stir fry is a wonderful source of lean protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a balanced and wholesome choice.

By using minimal oil and fresh ingredients, it keeps calories in check while maximizing flavor and satisfaction.

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Can I meal prep this stir fry? Yes, it reheats beautifully. Just store portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Just thaw and drain well before stir-frying.

How do I keep the chicken tender? Don’t overcook it. Cook over high heat just until it’s golden and no longer pink inside.

Fast, flavorful, and packed with goodness — this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is everything a perfect dinner should be!