When you need a meal that’s quick, delicious, and nourishing, this Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe is the answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in less than 30 minutes with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup. This dish balances tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a light, flavorful sauce—offering both comfort and nutrition in every bite. In this article, we’ll share the story behind how this dish became a family favorite, walk through the ingredients and step-by-step cooking process, and explore healthy tips and tasty variations that make this recipe endlessly customizable for your dinner table.
A Family Weeknight Favorite
It all started on a hectic Wednesday evening. I came home exhausted from a long day of work, the kind of day when cooking feels like a chore. But instead of ordering takeout, I reached for a few simple ingredients and decided to make my Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe. Within minutes, the kitchen filled with the aroma of sizzling garlic and soy sauce, and dinner came together faster than I expected.
That moment became a turning point in how I approached weeknight meals. The Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe quickly became a go-to, not just for its speed but because it satisfied everyone at the table. Even on the busiest nights, I knew I could rely on it to deliver a wholesome, restaurant-quality dinner without the hassle. Since then, it has become a staple in my home—an easy, flavorful dish that I can whip up anytime.
As friends and family began requesting the recipe, it became clear why the Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy dish is such a winner. It hits every mark: minimal prep, fresh ingredients, a balanced flavor, and easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a crowd, this meal fits right into any schedule, saving both time and stress. It’s one of those recipes you make once and realize it’s going to stay in your rotation forever.
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Easy Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe for a Healthy Weeknight Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This quick and nutritious chicken and broccoli stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a light savory sauce offers a balanced and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Marinate chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch, and a drizzle of oil for 10-15 minutes.
2. Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, drain, and rinse with cold water.
3. Whisk remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, honey, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
4. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes until golden; remove and set aside.
5. Stir-fry broccoli in the same wok for 2 minutes, then return chicken to the pan.
6. Pour sauce over chicken and broccoli and stir for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
7. Serve over rice or noodles and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: stir-fry
- Cuisine: asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: chicken stir fry, broccoli stir fry, easy dinner, quick dinner, healthy stir fry, weeknight meal, low carb
Why It’s the Perfect Quick Healthy Meal
There’s a reason stir-fries top the list of favorite weeknight dinners—they’re fast, flexible, and full of flavor. Unlike many last-minute meals that rely on processed ingredients, this Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy recipe offers a balance of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a light yet satisfying sauce. Stir-frying keeps everything crisp and vibrant while locking in the nutrients that make this dish both wholesome and tasty.
The beauty of a Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy meal is that it proves healthy food doesn’t have to be complicated. The quick-cooking technique means dinner is ready before you know it, and cleanup takes minutes. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, grains, or sauces. Whether you’re aiming to eat lighter, feed your family efficiently, or simply enjoy something flavorful after a long day, this Stir Fry Chicken And Broccoli recipe checks every box.
Ingredients & Preparation
Gathering Ingredients for Your Stir Fry Chicken And Broccoli
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to gather and prep your ingredients. Having everything ready makes this Stir Fry Chicken And Broccoli recipe even more efficient. Below is a handy ingredient table to guide you through what you’ll need for this meal.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced thin) | 1 pound (450 g) | Chicken thighs work too for juicier texture |
| Fresh broccoli florets | 3 cups | Frozen broccoli can substitute—just thaw before using |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Add more for a bolder flavor |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon | Optional but adds depth |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Swap with tamari for a gluten-free version |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness; optional |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Helps thicken the sauce |
| Chicken broth or water | ¼ cup | Adjust for sauce consistency |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon | Adds nutty aroma |
| Vegetable or avocado oil | 1 tablespoon | For stir-frying; use a high smoke point oil |
| Honey or brown sugar | 1 teaspoon | Optional if you like a touch of sweetness |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon | For subtle heat |
| Cooked rice or noodles | As needed | Serve alongside or under the stir fry |
When choosing chicken, look for thin, even slices to help them cook quickly without drying out. Fresh broccoli provides crispness and bright color, but frozen florets work fine for convenience. Always pat vegetables dry to avoid excess moisture when stir-frying—it helps achieve that classic tender-crisp texture.
If you’re out of oyster sauce, a quick mix of soy sauce, a dash of hoisin, and a pinch of sugar makes a great alternative. And for the health-conscious, use just a small drizzle of oil—because in this Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe, less really is more when it comes to healthy cooking.
How to Prepare Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Step-by-Step
Ready to cook your Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy dish? Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring it all together perfectly. Having a wok or large skillet on hand makes the process faster because it allows for even heat distribution and enough space to toss all the ingredients.
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon cornstarch, and a drizzle of oil. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes while prepping the rest.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Boil florets for 1–2 minutes, then rinse with cold water to keep them crisp.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, cornstarch, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Cook the Chicken: Stir-fry over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Toss broccoli in the wok for about 2 minutes, keeping it bright and tender.
- Combine and Simmer the Sauce: Add the chicken back, pour the sauce, and cook until it thickens and glazes the ingredients.
- Serve: Enjoy over warm rice or noodles. Add sesame seeds or green onions for garnish.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. High heat and space are essential for perfect stir-frying.
- Prep before cooking. The process moves quickly, so organize ingredients first.
- Use fresh aromatics. Garlic and ginger give the best flavor when freshly prepared.
- Watch texture cues. Chicken should be tender; broccoli should stay bright green.
With these easy steps, your Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy dish comes out flavorful, balanced, and beautifully simple to make. It’s a meal that turns any chaotic evening into a calm, satisfying dinner moment.
Healthy Tips & Flavor Variations
Making Your Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy
One of the best things about a Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe is how effortlessly you can make it healthier without losing its bold, satisfying flavor. A few small tweaks can lighten up this dish while keeping every bite delicious and nourishing.
Start by choosing lean protein. Skinless chicken breast is naturally low in fat and rich in protein. If you prefer thighs, trim visible fat. Use a modest amount of oil—avocado or sesame—for a balanced texture and flavor.
Next, focus on your sauce. Make a Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy variation by swapping standard soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Add garlic, ginger, or lime juice for punch without extra salt. For sides, consider brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to boost fiber and keep calories manageable.
Finally, rely on quick-cooking methods. High heat and short cooking time help broccoli stay nutrient-dense and flavorful. With minimal oil, fresh ingredients, and mindful seasoning, you’ll enjoy a Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your palate.
Flavor Variations for Every Palate
- Spicy Kick: Add chili oil, crushed red pepper, or sriracha for a bold punch.
- Garlic-Sesame Twist: Increase garlic, top with toasted sesame seeds, and finish with toasted sesame oil.
- Teriyaki-Inspired: Mix a touch of honey and rice vinegar into your sauce for gentle sweetness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for chicken—the sauce complements all.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Include peppers, snap peas, or carrots for color and variety.
Taste as you go—add soy for saltiness, honey for sweetness, or chili for spice. The Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy base adapts beautifully to different palettes and ingredient swaps, letting you create something exciting every time.
FAQs About Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Recipes
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes. Thaw and pat dry frozen florets before cooking to avoid excess moisture. While the texture is softer, the flavor remains vibrant in this Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy dish.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to refresh the sauce and maintain texture.
How do I prevent the chicken from turning rubbery?
Don’t overcook. Slice thinly and marinate briefly with soy sauce and cornstarch. Stir-fry quickly, remove once opaque, and finish cooking with the sauce.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure all sauces are certified gluten-free. The Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe stays flavorful and inclusive.
What other vegetables work well in this stir fry?
Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, baby corn, or snow peas complement the chicken perfectly. Mixing colors and textures keeps your Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy and visually appealing year-round.
Why This Easy Stir Fry Belongs in Your Meal Plan
At the end of a long day, it’s hard to beat a meal that’s quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor—and that’s exactly what the Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy recipe delivers. It’s proof that healthy eating can fit into even the busiest schedule.
The combination of lean chicken and fresh broccoli provides balanced nutrition while satisfying every appetite. The Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Healthy version supports various diets and adapts easily to your favorite flavors.
Best of all, this dish restores joy to weeknight cooking—ready in under 30 minutes, light on cleanup, and loaded with taste. Grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and experience how simplicity, health, and flavor come together in the ultimate Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Easy dinner tonight.
