Name: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 large (or 3 small-medium) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon oil; 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or oyster sauce); 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; ¼ teaspoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; ⅓ cup water (or chicken broth); ½ cup cold water; 1 tablespoon corn starch; Green onions, for garnish; Sesame seeds, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 72 reviews

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If you’re craving a quick, wholesome dish that bursts with flavor and vibrant colors, the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender pieces of chicken, crisp broccoli, and a perfectly balanced sauce that’s sweet, savory, and just a little bit tangy—all cooked up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or whipping up a weeknight dinner for yourself, this dish is straightforward, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black cast iron pan filled with many small, evenly cooked, light golden brown pieces of meat scattered across the surface. The meat pieces have a slightly rough texture with some areas showing a crisp, browned finish. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background contrast to the dark pan and golden meat pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken that provides hearty protein to the vibrant broccoli that adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of green color. The sauce ingredients come together to create a complex flavor profile that makes each bite irresistible.

Chicken breasts (2 large or 3 small-medium, cut into ½-inch pieces): Tender and quick-cooking, perfect for stir frying.
Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken and lightly sautés the broccoli.
Chinese five spice (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic hint that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
Broccoli florets (3 cups): Crisp and fresh, providing texture and nutrients to the dish.
Water or chicken broth (⅓ cup): Used to help steam broccoli to the perfect tenderness.
Fish sauce or oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Delivers umami depth to the sauce.
Low sodium soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds saltiness and color without overpowering the dish.
Sesame oil (2 teaspoons): Brings a toasty, nutty aroma to the stir fry.
Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Gives a punch of savory richness.
Ground ginger (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle zing and warmth.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances the savory elements with a touch of natural sweetness.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Brightens and adds gentle acidity.
Cold water (½ cup) + corn starch (1 tablespoon): Creates a smooth, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken and broccoli.
Green onions and sesame seeds: Fresh garnishes that add crunch, color, and extra flavor.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together all the sauce ingredients except for the cold water and corn starch. This makes sure the flavors marry beautifully and are ready to come alive when added to the stir fry. Setting this aside upfront saves you from scrambling later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your skillet with a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with Chinese five spice for that warm, fragrant layer of flavor. Sauté the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s cooked through and slightly golden on the edges. Take the chicken out and set it aside to keep it tender and juicy without overcooking.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes just until their edges start to crisp—a crucial step for keeping that fresh snap we all love. Then add ⅓ cup of water or chicken broth, cover, and cook for an additional 4 to 6 minutes until the broccoli is fork-tender but still vibrant green.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Give it a good stir so every bit is coated in that luscious sauce. Next, whisk together the cold water and corn starch until dissolved and stir this slurry into the skillet. As the sauce thickens over about a minute, let everything cook another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to cling beautifully to each ingredient.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish off by sprinkling chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. This not only adds a fresh crunch but also punches up the visual appeal, making your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

A white round plate sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a stir-fry dish that has two main layers. The bottom layer contains bright green broccoli florets with a slightly rough texture and small stems. On top and mixed through are medium-sized pieces of cooked meat in light brown color, with a slightly shiny and soft texture. The dish is garnished with thin slices of green onion scattered over, adding a fresh green touch, and sprinkled white and black sesame seeds. A silver fork is placed on the right side of the plate, partially resting on the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Green onions and sesame seeds aren’t just for show—they add a fresh, crunchy texture and a gorgeous pop of color. For an extra zing, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat. You can also add a squeeze of lime to brighten things up just before serving.

Side Dishes

This stir fry is fabulous on its own, but pairing it with plain steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice turns it into a full meal. If you prefer noodles, try it with rice noodles or even soba noodles to soak up that incredible sauce. A simple cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables on the side can bring a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in a colorful bowl layered over fluffy rice for a cozy dinner vibe. Alternatively, make lettuce wraps with the stir fry filling for a fun, hands-on meal. If you’re hosting, you could even present it family-style on a large platter garnished with extra sesame seeds and fresh herbs for a delightful share-and-enjoy experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken and broccoli keep their texture surprisingly well, making for an effortless next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This recipe freezes nicely, though you might notice a slight softness in the broccoli after thawing. To freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your stir fry gently on the stovetop over medium heat to prevent the chicken from drying out and to keep the broccoli crisp. Adding a splash of water or broth will loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge. You can also microwave, but cover the dish and reheat in short intervals for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but fresh broccoli will give you that perfect crispy texture and vibrant color that makes this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe so delightful.

What can I substitute for fish sauce?

If you’re not a fan of fish sauce, oyster sauce is a great alternative that still provides rich umami flavor. Soy sauce alone can also work, but the depth won’t be quite the same.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and be sure to check your oyster or fish sauce labels. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or baby corn are excellent additions and can be quickly cooked alongside the broccoli for extra color and nutrition.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes while cooking, a splash of chili garlic sauce, or fresh chopped chilies according to your heat preference. It’s all about layering in the flavors that you love.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe that’s both quick to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—it might just become your new favorite dinner go-to. Happy cooking!

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