The combination of tender chicken slices stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a deeply savory garlic soy sauce creates an unforgettable dish that feels indulgent but is actually light and healthy. This classic Chinese stir fry delivers all the punchy flavors of your favorite takeout but is made with wholesome, simple ingredients you can pronounce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something fast yet nourishing. Its lean protein, crisp-tender veggies, and bold umami-rich sauce hit every note of comfort and satisfaction. Plus, you can serve it over rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Whether you’re a stir fry newbie or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is guaranteed to become a weekly favorite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
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2 cups broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons olive oil (or sesame oil)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon ginger, grated
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1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
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1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup chicken broth or water
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Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
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Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season lightly with pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
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Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender. You can add a splash of water and cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to steam if needed.
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Return the chicken to the skillet.
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In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, chicken broth, and cornstarch slurry. Pour over the chicken and broccoli.
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Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated.
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Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origin and Popularity of Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Chicken and broccoli stir fry is a beloved dish that originated from Chinese-American cuisine, influenced by traditional Cantonese cooking methods that emphasize quick, high-heat stir-frying to preserve texture and flavor. While not traditionally found in China in this exact form, it became a staple in Chinese restaurants across the U.S. thanks to its balance of protein and vegetables, its comforting sauce, and how well it adapts to American palates. Its universal appeal lies in the simplicity of ingredients, quick preparation, and the satisfying umami flavors delivered in each bite. Today, it’s one of the most popular takeout-style meals recreated in home kitchens, offering a healthier and faster alternative to restaurant versions.
Why This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Is a Go-To Recipe
This particular stir fry recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly beginner-friendly, requiring only a handful of pantry staples and basic chopping and sautéing techniques. It’s also extremely versatile—you can use chicken breasts or thighs, swap out broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers, and easily make it gluten-free with tamari or coconut aminos. What sets this version apart is the balance between the savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic and ginger, and the subtle sweetness of honey, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s both light and satisfying. It’s a dish that delivers restaurant-quality results at a fraction of the price, all while being healthier and customizable.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
This dish is naturally loaded with nutritional benefits. Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth, satiety, and overall metabolic health. Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, which are known to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Garlic and ginger, both included generously in the stir fry, are celebrated for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestion-enhancing properties. Additionally, using olive or sesame oil keeps the fat content heart-healthy. When served with brown rice or cauliflower rice, this dish offers a balanced meal suitable for a range of diets including gluten-free, low-carb, paleo, and dairy-free.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Weeknights
What makes this chicken and broccoli stir fry a weeknight hero is its speed and simplicity. With only 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s faster than waiting on delivery. It also stores well for meal prep—simply refrigerate leftovers and reheat when needed. The sauce retains its flavor even after a few days, making it ideal for prepping ahead for lunches or quick dinners. You can double the batch and divide it into meal containers for the week, ensuring you always have a wholesome option ready to go.
Adaptable and Customizable to Taste
Another major advantage of this stir fry is how adaptable it is. While chicken and broccoli are the base, feel free to incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or bok choy. You can also spice it up with chili flakes, Sriracha, or even Thai sweet chili sauce for a flavor twist. For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh and adjust the sauce to suit plant-based diets. If you’re watching sodium levels, choose a low-sodium soy sauce or opt for coconut aminos, which are naturally lower in salt. For extra protein, add cashews or a scrambled egg. The customization options make it one of the most flexible stir fry recipes around.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
To get that perfect takeout-style texture, slice your chicken thinly and stir fry it quickly over high heat to sear and lock in moisture. Avoid overcrowding the pan so everything cooks evenly. Blanch or lightly steam the broccoli before stir-frying if you prefer it more tender. Use freshly grated ginger and garlic for maximum flavor—they’re the aromatic foundation of the dish. To keep the sauce glossy and thick, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the pan, and cook until it bubbles and coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
Serving Suggestions to Make It a Meal
While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a more filling option. For low-carb diets, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles are excellent alternatives. You can also pair it with a simple cucumber salad, Asian slaw, or miso soup to round out your meal. Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds adds a pop of color and extra texture.
Why Home-Cooked Stir Fry Beats Takeout
Homemade chicken and broccoli stir fry allows you to control every aspect—from the quality of meat and vegetables to the amount of oil, sugar, and sodium used. Takeout often includes excess oils and MSG, whereas cooking it yourself ensures a clean, wholesome dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Plus, preparing it at home is often quicker than ordering out, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your meal.
This Stir Fry’s Role in a Balanced Diet
With a balance of lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, this chicken and broccoli stir fry can easily fit into most healthy eating plans. It’s low in carbs when served without rice, and it’s naturally dairy-free and gluten-free (with minor substitutions). It offers lasting energy without the heavy feeling of greasy takeout. This dish works well for those tracking calories, managing blood sugar, or simply looking to eat more whole foods.
Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a satisfying, nutrient-rich, and endlessly adaptable meal that’s perfect for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and anyone craving flavor without the fuss. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re new to stir fries or a seasoned home chef, this dish will make you appreciate the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in a powerful, delicious way.
