Name: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (thinly sliced); 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 inch ginger (minced); 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium); 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions (sliced); 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

If you’re craving a stir fry that’s packed with flavor, colorful, and ready in under 30 minutes, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is your go-to weeknight meal. Perfectly tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory sauce come together in a sizzling skillet for a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

This recipe is ideal for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quick, healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. With simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip this up in no time.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced chicken with 1 tsp cornstarch and a pinch of salt. This creates a light coating that will help the chicken stay tender during cooking.
Blanch the broccoli: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 1–2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), chicken broth, sugar, and remaining 1 tsp cornstarch. Set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: Add remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Combine broccoli and chicken: Add blanched broccoli to the skillet and toss with garlic and ginger for 1–2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan.
Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients, about 2–3 minutes.
Finish the dish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry

Cut evenly: Slice chicken and broccoli uniformly to ensure even cooking.
High heat is key: A hot pan prevents soggy vegetables and creates that desirable “wok hei” flavor.
Prep ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and sauce mixed before heating the pan. Stir fry happens fast!
Adjust sweetness or saltiness: Tweak sugar and soy sauce according to taste preference.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add 1–2 tsp Sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with beef strips, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to make the stir fry even more colorful and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles. It also pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with chopped peanuts for crunch or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra aroma.

Fun Facts and Cultural Context

Stir fry originated in China as a quick and efficient way to cook vegetables and meats while preserving their flavor and nutrients. The technique has since become a staple in kitchens worldwide. Broccoli, though native to Italy, has become a key vegetable in modern Asian-inspired stir fry dishes because of its texture and nutritional benefits. Chicken is a versatile protein that absorbs flavors well, making it perfect for fast, savory meals.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors while maintaining vibrant colors and textures. The quick blanching of broccoli preserves its crunch and nutrients, while the cornstarch in the sauce ensures a luscious coating without heaviness. It’s a foolproof combination of taste, health, and speed.

Nutrition Highlights

Protein-rich from chicken
Fiber-packed broccoli for digestion
Low in added sugars
Quick-cooking with minimal oil for a healthier option

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a perfect example of a weeknight meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough for daily cooking. It’s colorful, delicious, and adaptable for any taste preference.