Name: Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin); 1½ tbsp soy sauce; 2 tsp cornstarch; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 tsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups carrots (sliced thin); 1 tbsp garlic; 1 tsp ginger

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about a quick and easy weeknight meal, and my go-to for that isBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry. On particularly busy evenings, when the family is buzzing with activities and chaos, I find solace in this dish. Just the thought of vibrant greenbroccoli and tenderchicken stir-fried to perfection makes my mouth water. I can often be found in the kitchen, with my kids peeking in, watching the colors change and the fragrant aromas fill the air. The sizzle of thechicken on the pan, the crunch of thecarrots, it’s all a part of a comforting ritual that creates not only a delicious meal but also cherished memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Frying Pan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife

Why Try This Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry

Quick and Easy

One of the standout features of myBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry is its simplicity. This dish comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time isn’t on your side. With a few key ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in no time.

Flavorful Balance

The combination of savorysoy sauce, spicySriracha, and sweethoisin sauce creates a flavor explosion that tantalizes the taste buds. I love how each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. It’s like a dance on your palate!

Family Favorite

This dish has become a staple in our home. My kids adore it! They love picking out the colorful vegetables and the sweet sauce that coats everything just right. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies without any fuss. Plus, I feel good knowing they’re eating healthy.

Versatile Options

Another reason I appreciate this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out thebroccoli for other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, depending on what you have on hand. You can even adjust the spice level by adding more or lessred pepper flakes orSriracha. The possibilities are endless!

Healthy and Satisfying

Not only is this dish quick and tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Thebroccoli andcarrots provide a plethora of vitamins, while thechicken offers lean protein. It’s a wholesome meal that satisfies without weighing you down.

Ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry

The ingredients for this dish are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The star players include succulentchicken, crispbroccoli, and colorfulcarrots. Together, they create a delightful harmony that makes for an unforgettable dish.

1½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin: The main protein source that keeps the dish satisfying and hearty.
1½ tbsp soy sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2 tsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a silky texture.
½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
½ tsp red pepper flakes: Brings a kick of heat to the dish.
3 tbsp soy sauce: A second splash that enhances the sauce’s depth.
1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Adds sweetness and richness.
1 tbsp Sriracha: For those who like it hot!
1 tbsp sugar: Balances the heat and adds sweetness.
2 tsp rice vinegar: Provides acidity to brighten the dish.
1 tbsp olive oil: Used for stir-frying, adds healthy fats.
3 cups broccoli florets: Adds crunch and nutrition.
2 cups carrots, sliced thin: Adds sweetness and color.
1 tbsp garlic: For a fragrant base.
1 tsp ginger: Adds warmth and zest.

Directions for Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry

Cooking up theBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry is as easy as pie, and I’m excited to take you through the steps. With the right techniques, you’ll create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant. Let’s dive in!

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the slicedchicken breast strips, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything to coat thechicken evenly. Let it sit for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce.
For the sauce, whisk together the remainingsoy sauce, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, sugar, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This will give the dish a depth of flavor that is irresistible.
Next, heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and add in theolive oil. Wait until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough to begin stir-frying.
Once the oil is hot, toss in the preparedbroccoli florets and thinly slicedcarrots. Stir-fry them for about five minutes, keeping them moving in the pan so they cook evenly without burning.
Add the mincedgarlic andginger to the pan. Cook for about thirty seconds, or until they become fragrant. You’ll notice a beautiful aroma filling your kitchen!
Remove thebroccoli andcarrots from the pan and transfer them to a large bowl. We’ll add them back later with thechicken.
Return the skillet to the heat and add in the marinatedchicken strips. Cook on high heat for about four minutes, stirring frequently until thechicken is browned and cooked through. You want it to be juicy, not dry!
Pour the sauce over thechicken and toss everything to coat. This is when the magic happens, as the sauce thickens beautifully and clings to the ingredients.
Add the cookedbroccoli andcarrots back into the skillet. Toss to combine everything, letting the flavors meld together for another minute or two.
Finally, serve your hotBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry over rice or noodles. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and satisfying meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Technique: Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that preserves nutrients while enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
Texture Matters: Keep your vegetables crisp by not overcooking them. You want them vibrant and crunchy.
Preparation is Key: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It makes the process smoother!
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the sauces to suit your taste. Adding a splash of sesame oil can elevate the flavor further.

Change It Up

Cooking is all about creativity, and myBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry is no exception. Here are some fun tips to make this dish your own!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for up to three days.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this stir fry! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll last for about three months.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or even noodles. It’s a versatile meal!
Vegetable Variety: Swap out thebroccoli forbell peppers, snap peas, or evenzucchini for a different flavor profile.
Spice Level: If you love heat, add some freshchili peppers or moreSriracha to kick it up a notch.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to servingBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry, there are so many options to explore!

Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Noodles: This delicious stir fry can also be served with your favorite noodles like lo mein or rice noodles.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top for an elevated touch.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Divide it into individual servings for a quick grab-and-go lunch.
Occasions: It’s great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this dish any time of year, but it’s especially great in the spring when fresh vegetables are abundant.

FAQ

The best way to cut chicken for stir fry is to slice it thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure the meat stays tender and cooks quickly. Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken into strips about one inch wide. Make sure to partially freeze the chicken for about 15 to 20 minutes prior; this will make slicing much easier.

Absolutely! One of the best things about stir fries is their versatility. You can use almost any vegetable you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, and mushrooms all make excellent additions. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

To make thisBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also use seitan for a meaty texture. Additionally, make sure to use a vegetarian-friendly soy sauce or tamari. The sauce and vegetables will still create a delicious, hearty meal!

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a healthier option. If you want to keep it low-carb, try serving it over cauliflower rice. You can also add an Asian-inspired salad on the side to complete the meal.

Conclusion

TheBroccoli Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful mix of vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, all coated in a flavorful sauce that’s quick to whip up. It’s a dish that’s not just nourishing but also packed with taste, making it a favorite around our dinner table. I encourage you to give it a try; you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying it is to make this at home.