Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Flavor-packed and healthy, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a delicious dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe features tender chicken breast and vibrant broccoli coated in a rich stir fry sauce. With only 11 ingredients, it’s simple and versatile enough for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this stir fry supports a balanced diet.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Gluten-Free: Made without soy sauce, this recipe is perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or nonstick pan
• Small bowl or jar
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or nonstick pan: Allows for even cooking of chicken and vegetables without sticking.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when making the stir fry sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons chicken broth (plus more for cooking, if desired)
• 1/2 cup coconut aminos
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon tapioca flour

For the Chicken and Broccoli

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 7 cups broccoli florets (465 grams/about 2 heads)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions
• Cilantro

For Serving

• White rice
• Cauliflower rice

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl or jar, combine coconut aminos, 1/2 cup broth, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Whisk until well combined. In another jar, create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons broth with tapioca flour and whisking. Set both mixtures aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Add the sliced chicken to the pan in batches so as not to overcrowd it. Season with salt and pepper. Cook each side for 30-60 seconds until browned. Remove cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

Leave the chicken juices in the skillet. Add broccoli florets along with salt and pepper; stir well. Cover with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. If necessary, add a bit more broth to help steam the broccoli. Once done, remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Let the pan cool slightly before adding the stir fry sauce mixture along with the slurry you prepared earlier. Whisk to combine well. Increase heat back to medium and cook until thickened—about 3-5 minutes—until it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble

Return the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly and heat through for about 1 minute.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry hot! Top with optional sesame seeds or green onions if desired, alongside your choice of rice!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Serving Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can be a delightful experience. This dish is not only colorful but also versatile, making it easy to pair with various accompaniments to suit your taste.

With Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice is a classic option that soaks up the stir fry sauce beautifully.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that provides a similar texture without the carbs.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: These noodles are gluten-free and provide an excellent base for the stir fry.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a light, healthy twist, zucchini noodles add freshness and crunch.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh, oniony kick that complements the dish well.

With Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can balance the warm, savory flavors of the stir fry.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing pairs nicely, adding texture and brightness.

How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

To make your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry even better, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh garlic and ginger for maximum flavor. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste significantly.
• Proper cooking temperature: Ensure your pan is hot enough when adding chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear without steaming the meat.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of browning.
• Add broccoli last: To maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture, add broccoli towards the end of cooking.
• Whisk the slurry well: Prevent clumps by whisking your tapioca flour slurry thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking based on your personal preference for saltiness or spice.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Aromatic jasmine rice complements the flavors of stir fry perfectly.
2. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad adds protein and pairs well with stir-fried chicken.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory stir fry flavors; simply roast until tender.
4. Miso Soup: A light miso soup offers warmth and depth without overpowering your main dish.
5. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quickly sauté bok choy in garlic for an extra veggie boost alongside your meal.
6. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame beans provide a fun finger food element that’s rich in protein.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies add acidity that brightens up the overall meal experience.
8. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make for a delicious appetizer before diving into your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact flavor and texture.

• Skipping the marination step: Marinating chicken adds depth and enhances flavor. Always allow time for marination before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken or broccoli in the pan can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches for better results.
• Not preheating the skillet: A hot pan ensures better browning and prevents sticking. Always preheat your skillet before adding ingredients.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If your sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t coat the chicken properly. Make sure to whisk your slurry well before adding it to the pan.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste. Choose high-quality chicken and fresh broccoli for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry that might help clarify your cooking process.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.

How do I make my Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry more flavorful?

Adding fresh herbs or adjusting the seasoning can enhance flavor. Experiment with garlic or ginger amounts as well.

Can I customize my Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.

What can I serve with Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

This dish pairs well with white rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

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

The entire process takes around 30 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a deliciously versatile dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s simple to customize with various veggies or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!