Nothing beats the sizzle of a hot wok tossing together tender strips of chicken with bright green broccoli florets and sweet red bell pepper. As the garlic and ginger hit that searing surface, tiny bubbles of steam lift into the air, filling the kitchen with hints of warmth and excitement. Every time I make this stir fry, I’m reminded of my first attempt—juggling chopping boards, a timer, and a hungry family peeking over my shoulder. But it all came together in a glorious five minutes of tossing and turning, and the reward was pure satisfaction on everyone’s plates. If you’re craving a weekday treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture, this dish has got your name written all over it.
What makes this dish such a winner is its perfect balance of speed and satisfaction. As a self-proclaimed home cook who’s always short on time, I love that it only takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook. There’s no resting time required, and at around 350 calories per serving, it qualifies as one of those healthy meals you can whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re an Asian cuisine newbie or a seasoned stir-fry enthusiast, this beginner-level recipe is designed to fit right into your lunch or dinner rotation. Quick and Flavor-Packed Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry for Busy Weeknights! This vibrant stir fry combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and red bell pepper tossed in a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s sure to please any palate. Get ready to chop, stir, and savor the magic of this quick dinner recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI STIR FRY
Before you fire up your wok, let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from building layers of flavor to adding the perfect texture.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein of this dish—thinly sliced for quick even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Broccoli florets: These bright green bites bring a satisfying crunch and a burst of color, plus nutritional value in the form of vitamins and fiber.
- Red bell pepper: Sweet, colorful, and juicy, the bell pepper adds visual appeal and a gentle sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
- Garlic: Minced to release its bold, aromatic essence, garlic infuses each mouthful with a classic garlicky punch.
- Fresh ginger: Minced ginger provides a subtle warmth and zing, complementing the garlic and elevating the overall spice profile.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the stir fry sauce, lending a deep umami richness.
- Oyster sauce: A touch of oyster sauce deepens the savory notes and gives the sauce a slight caramelized sweetness.
- Cornstarch: This simple starch is the secret to a glossy, thickened sauce that clings to the chicken and veggies.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor and the right amount of liquid to create a smooth, silky sauce.
- Vegetable oil: With a high smoke point, vegetable oil is perfect for hot-pan cooking without burning.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional): The finishing touch for a pop of texture and fresh, oniony brightness.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI STIR FRY
Rolling up your sleeves and getting your ingredients lined up is half the fun. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to a gorgeous, restaurant-style stir fry right at home.
1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Set this luscious sauce aside—it’s going to bring everything together in perfect harmony.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced chicken. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is cooked through and beautifully golden brown. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
3. In the same hot pan, pour in the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Immediately add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Toss in the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper, stirring constantly to coat them in the garlicky oil. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes, or until the vegetables reach a crisp-tender texture and still sport vibrant color.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling the pieces among the veggies. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, then use a spatula to gently toss everything together.
6. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely and forms a glossy coating on every morsel.
7. Remove the pan from heat. If you like, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and visual flair. Serve piping hot alongside steamed rice or your favorite noodles.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI STIR FRY
When you’re looking to turn this dish into a complete meal or jazz it up for guests, these serving ideas will take your stir fry to the next level. Presentation matters just as much as taste, and a thoughtful pairing can highlight the dish’s bold flavors.
- Steamed white or jasmine rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice is a classic pairing that soaks up every drop of the savory sauce, making each bite utterly satisfying. Keep the rice warm in a covered pot while you finish the stir fry.
- Rice noodles or lo mein: If you’re in the mood for noodles, cook up a batch of rice noodles or quick-cook lo mein. Toss them with a bit of sesame oil, then layer your stir fry on top for a comforting twist.
- Crunchy toppings: Elevate the texture by adding a scattering of toasted cashews, sliced almonds, or even crushed peanuts. The contrast between the crisp nuts and tender chicken is irresistible.
- Fresh herbs and citrus: Brighten up each serving by garnishing with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or thin slices of red chili. The fresh, zesty pop will cut through the richness and add a burst of color.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI STIR FRY
This stir fry is just as delicious the next day, making it a prime candidate for meal prep or leftover lunches. Storing it properly will help you maintain that signature brightness in both taste and texture.
- Refrigeration: Allow the stir fry to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the veggies crisp and prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, portion the cooled stir fry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Press out any excess air, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Separate rice or noodles: If you’ve paired this dish with rice or noodles, store them separately. Keeping grains apart prevents them from getting soggy as they absorb the sauce over time.
- Quick reheat tips: For best results, reheat portions in a hot pan with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce’s consistency. Stir continuously until everything is heated through and glistening again.
CONCLUSION
I hope this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe has you feeling inspired and eager to tackle a quick, healthy, and downright delicious meal any night of the week. From vibrant vegetables and tender chicken to that silky garlic-ginger sauce, every element has been chosen for maximum flavor and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a hungry family, or entertaining friends, this beginner-friendly dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, so it’s always at your fingertips for those bustling weeknights.
Don’t forget—you’ll find a handy FAQ below where I answer common questions and offer extra tips to tweak the recipe to your liking. I’d love to hear how your stir fry turned out, so leave a comment if you have any feedback, questions, or twists you’d recommend. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring a smile to your dinner table!
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Description
This vibrant stir fry combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and sweet red bell pepper, all tossed in a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and set aside.
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Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper to the pan. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.
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Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to combine.
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Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
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Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Note
- Broccoli should be crisp-tender, avoid overcooking for best texture.
- Red bell pepper adds a sweet flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
- Variations can include additional vegetables like snow peas or carrots.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- Ensure the chicken is thinly sliced for even cooking.
