Quick Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry – 15-Minute Recipe

The aroma of sizzling chicken mingling with crisp broccoli is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Each bite of Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry bursts with flavor, a delightful dance of tender chicken covered in a savory sauce, perfectly complemented by the crunch of fresh vegetables.

Picture this: a busy weeknight where dinner seems like an impossible task but suddenly turns into a culinary adventure. In just a few minutes, you can whip up this dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and joy.

Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Look for bright green florets that are firm and tightly packed; they add both color and crunch.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for the best flavor; they give your stir-fry that extra zing.

• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth; peel and finely chop it for maximum impact.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness while still enjoying that umami kick.

• Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil gives your stir-fry an authentic Asian flair; just a little goes a long way.

• Honey or Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances out the soy sauce; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by washing and chopping your broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips for quick cooking. Mince the garlic and ginger—remember, fresh is best!

Step 2: Make Your Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, and ginger. This will be your flavor bomb! Set aside while you cook.

Step 3: Heat Up Your Pan

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil—just enough for those chicken strips to get all crispy and golden brown without sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Allow them to sear without moving them around too much—this helps achieve that golden-brown crust! Cook for about five minutes until they’re no longer pink in the center.

Step 5: Stir in the Broccoli

Throw in your beautiful broccoli florets along with a splash of water (to create steam) and cover with a lid. Let everything steam together for about three minutes until the broccoli becomes bright green yet still crisp.

Step 6: Add Your Sauce

Pour your prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together so that each piece gets coated in that delectable glaze! Cook for another minute until heated through and slightly thickened.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve hot over rice or noodles, if you’d like—a great way to soak up all that amazing flavor!

And there you have it—the perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry that’s not just delicious but also nostalgic for many! With its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and quick preparation time, it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you’re seeking comfort food or simply want something healthy yet satisfying. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors, then quickly stir-fry the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp. While that’s happening, whip up a delicious sauce to tie everything together seamlessly for a mouthwatering experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp if you want a different protein. Toss in some bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch, and experiment with your favorite sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

My first attempt at Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry was a family dinner gone hilariously wrong when I mistook salt for sugar. Let’s just say dessert got very savory that night!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?

To prepare a delicious Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry, you will need boneless chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Optional ingredients include bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition. Ensure you have cornstarch on hand to thicken the sauce if desired. This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something healthy yet satisfying.

How long does it take to cook Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?

Cooking Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparation time for chopping vegetables and slicing chicken. The actual cooking process in a hot skillet or wok usually lasts around 10 to 15 minutes. This quick cooking time allows the chicken to remain tender and the broccoli to retain its vibrant color while achieving that perfect crisp-tender texture. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips for stir-frying recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken or broccoli for this stir-fry?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken or broccoli for this Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe. If using frozen chicken, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to guarantee even cooking throughout. Frozen broccoli can also work well; however, be mindful that it may release more water during cooking. Adjust your cooking times slightly, as frozen ingredients may take a little longer to heat through compared to fresh ones.

What variations can I make in Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry?

You can easily customize your Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry by adding different vegetables such as snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers. For added flavor, consider incorporating sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce alongside soy sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Each variation brings unique flavors while still keeping the essence of this classic dish intact.

Conclusion for Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry:

In conclusion, Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a versatile dish that combines healthy ingredients with bold flavors. By using fresh chicken breast and vibrant broccoli, you create a meal that’s not only nutritious but also quick to prepare. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make variations with different vegetables or sauces, this stir-fry remains a favorite for busy weeknights. Enjoy making this easy yet delicious meal that satisfies both hunger and health goals. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.

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Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal packed with nutritious ingredients and bold flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can create a colorful stir-fry that not only pleases the palate but also brings warmth to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
• Optional: Additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots

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Instructions

1. Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Slice chicken breasts into thin strips. Mince garlic and ginger.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), garlic, and ginger to make the sauce. Set aside.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken strips to the pan in a single layer and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Add broccoli florets and a splash of water; cover and steam for about 3 minutes until bright green yet still crisp.
6. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another minute until heated through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added crunch, include bell peppers or snap peas. You can also substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.