Everyone enjoys a good stir-fry, and this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic that never disappoints. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Tender chicken pieces, fresh crunchy broccoli, and a savory sauce make a perfect trifecta of flavor. This stir-fry recipe is not just delicious but also easy and quick to prepare. It's an ideal solution for a busy weeknight dinner.
You'll be amazed at how these basic ingredients can transform into a satisfying meal that's packed full of flavor and nutrition.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is all about balance. The chicken offers lean protein, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied. The broccoli brings an abundance of nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and dietary fiber, making this meal healthy as well as tasty. The sauce, a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, ties everything together, offering a punch of umami and a subtle heat that gives this dish its characteristic charm.
Additionally, this recipe works because of its sheer convenience and adaptability. It is a fast one-pan dish, perfect for those nights when you need a meal on the table quickly. Also, it's versatile - if you want to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, go for it! If you desire a vegetarian variant, tofu can take the place of chicken. This flexibility means you can tailor the dish to your liking or based on what's available in your kitchen. And let's not forget, the cleanup is a breeze. By the end of the meal, you will have only one pan to wash, making this recipe even more appealing. Try this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry, and it could very well become your new go-to dish.
Ingredients
Chicken- This forms the protein base of the dish. You will need about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Turkey can be used as a substitute if preferred.
Broccoli- A nutrient-dense vegetable that provides color, crunch, and health benefits. About 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets will suffice. Frozen broccoli can also work in a pinch, just be sure to drain it well.
Garlic- A flavor enhancer that adds depth and richness. You will need about 2 cloves, minced. If you're not a fan of garlic, you can substitute it with onion or ginger for a different flavor profile.
Soy Sauce- The primary seasoning that imparts a salty, umami flavor. Around ¼ cup should do the trick. If you need a gluten-free or low-sodium alternative, tamari or coconut aminos can work.
Cornstarch- Helps to thicken the sauce, lending a glossy, sticky consistency that clings to the chicken and broccoli. Use about 1 tablespoon. You can substitute it with arrowroot powder if necessary.
Tips
- Always preheat your wok or pan before you start cooking for the best results.
- Cut your chicken into evenly-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook your broccoli just until it turns bright green to maintain its crunch and nutritional content.
- Don't overcrowd your pan, cook in batches if necessary to allow each piece to cook properly.
- Taste as you go along and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
How to Serve
Stir-fry is a versatile dish and can be served in many ways. Its rich flavors can complement various side dishes, and it can be served either hot or at room temperature, making it suitable for both warm and cold seasons.
- Over Rice: The most traditional way to serve stir-fry is over a bed of warm, fluffy rice. The rice soaks up the sauce from the stir-fry, creating a delightful pairing.
- With Noodles: You can also serve your stir-fry with noodles for a heartier meal. Any kind of noodle would work, from ramen to udon or even spaghetti.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, lighter option, try serving your stir-fry in crisp lettuce wraps. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy this dish.
Similar Recipes
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Instant Pot Chicken and Broccoli
Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- ¼ cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
Instructions
- Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and the chicken pieces. Stir-fry until they're lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same wok, add a bit more oil and then the garlic. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the broccoli florets to the wok. Stir-fry until they turn bright green, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and cornstarch until there are no lumps. Pour this mixture into the wok.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the wok. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and broccoli are well-coated with the sauce.
- Continue to cook for a couple more minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve.
Notes
- Always preheat your wok or pan before you start cooking for the best results.
- Cut your chicken into evenly-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook your broccoli just until it turns bright green to maintain its crunch and nutritional content.
- Don't overcrowd your pan, cook in batches if necessary to allow each piece to cook properly.
- Taste as you go along and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.