Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Flavor-packed, healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a delightful dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. With just 11 ingredients and ready in 30 minutes, it’s a go-to meal for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious dinner without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, as everything cooks in one skillet.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins if desired.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, this dish is both filling and wholesome.
• Flavorful Sauce: The thick and sticky stir fry sauce brings all the ingredients together for a delicious finish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or nonstick pan
• Small bowl or jar for mixing sauce
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or nonstick pan: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making stir frying efficient.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly without lumps, essential for making the sauce.
• Cutting board and knife: These are crucial for prepping your chicken and vegetables quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, you will need:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 7 cups broccoli florets (approximately 465 grams or about 2 heads)
• 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
• 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, add:
* 1/2 cup coconut aminos
* 1/2 cup broth
* 3 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
* 3 cloves minced garlic
* 1 inch minced ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
* Salt and pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. In another jar, mix:
* 2 tablespoons broth with
* 1 tablespoon tapioca flour

Whisk until smooth. Set both aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it get hot.
* Add sliced chicken to the pan in batches without overcrowding.
* Season with salt and pepper.
* Cook each side for about 30–60 seconds until browned.
Remove cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, using the leftover juices:
* Add broccoli florets along with salt and pepper.
Mix well, cover with a lid, and cook for about 5–7 minutes.
Stir occasionally; add more broth if needed to help steam. Once tender, remove broccoli from the pan.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low:
Give your slurry another whisk to ensure no clumps.
Add both the sauce mixture and slurry back to the pan.
Whisk well while cooking until thickened (about 3–5 minutes) until it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble

Return cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet:
Stir well to combine everything. Heat through for about one minute.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Top your dish with optional sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm with white rice or cauliflower rice!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Serving chicken and broccoli stir fry can be both versatile and delicious. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Rice

• White Rice – Fluffy white rice is a classic choice that pairs well with the savory stir fry sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a light and healthy base while still being filling.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Green Onions – Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch that complements the dish nicely.

With Extra Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A drizzle of sweet chili sauce can add a delightful sweetness and additional spice.
• Soy Sauce Alternative – For those who enjoy a saltier taste, consider using additional coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute.

How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

To make the best chicken and broccoli stir fry, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cooking in batches prevents steaming; this keeps the chicken juicy and the broccoli crisp.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste your stir fry before serving; you may want to adjust salt or pepper levels for personal preference.
• Whisk Slurry Well – Ensure your tapioca slurry is clump-free for a smooth sauce consistency when thickening.
• Cook Quickly – High heat cooking will maintain the vibrant color of the broccoli while keeping it tender-crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with chicken and broccoli stir fry can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – Lightly fragrant, this rice complements the rich flavors of the stir fry perfectly.
2. Quinoa Salad – A nutritious alternative, quinoa salad adds protein and texture while being light on calories.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas offers vibrant colors and additional nutrients alongside your main dish.
4. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing balances the warmth of the stir fry with coolness.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes creates a pleasing contrast to the savory stir fry.
6. Miso Soup – This warm broth-based soup can serve as an excellent starter before diving into your stir-fry meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry from good to great!

• Boldly skip the prep: Not prepping your ingredients ahead of time can lead to overcooked chicken or soggy broccoli. Always have everything ready before you start cooking.
• Boldly overcrowd the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause it to steam instead of sear. Cook in smaller batches for a better texture.
• Boldly ignore the sauce: Not letting the sauce thicken properly can result in a watery dish. Be patient and let it reach a nappe consistency for the best flavor.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Failing to season each component well can leave your stir fry bland. Season the chicken, broccoli, and sauce separately for maximum flavor.
• Boldly go with low-quality ingredients: Using poor-quality chicken or old vegetables affects taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for a delicious stir fry.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.

Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring occasionally, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry.

What is Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish made with tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli florets, and a thick stir fry sauce that brings everything together.

Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined in the storage instructions.

How do I customize my Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

You can customize your stir fry by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or even incorporating different proteins such as beef or turkey.

Is Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli while being low in carbs—making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to experiment with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!