This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a delicious and authentic Chinese-style dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken pieces, crisp broccoli, and carrots are stir-fried in a savory, umami-packed sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce. The combination of flavors creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is easy, healthy, and incredibly satisfying!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- ½ lb broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 oz carrots, julienned
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons rice wine
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 scallion, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips for quicker cooking.
- Coat with Cornstarch: Toss the chicken in 1 tablespoon cornstarch to create a light coating. This helps keep the meat tender and velvety when stir-fried.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, minced ginger, rice wine, sugar, chicken stock, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce.
- Set aside for later use.
Blanch the Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 1 minute until they turn bright green.
- Immediately drain and transfer to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Stir Fry the Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken strips and stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Stir Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the carrots and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened. Then, add the blanched broccoli and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer and Thicken: Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
Serve
- Garnish with chopped scallions for extra freshness.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
The Origins and Popularity of Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic dish in Chinese cuisine, widely recognized in Chinese-American restaurants and homes around the world. The stir-frying technique originated in China over 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty, where it was used to cook food quickly over high heat, preserving texture and nutrients.
This dish is popular for its simple yet bold flavors, where tender chicken meets crisp-tender broccoli in a deeply savory sauce. It became a favorite takeout dish in the U.S. and beyond, as it is healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare at home. Today, it is considered a staple in both authentic Chinese cooking and modern home kitchens due to its versatility and delicious taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Restaurant-Style at Home: Enjoy a better-than-takeout experience with fresh ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap veggies, or add nuts for crunch.
Health Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
- High in Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Fiber & Vitamins: Broccoli and carrots provide fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants for immune health.
- Low in Fat: Stir-frying requires minimal oil, making this dish lighter than deep-fried alternatives.
- Boosts Metabolism: The ginger and garlic in the sauce have metabolism-boosting properties.
Serving Suggestions
- With Steamed Rice: Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a filling meal.
- With Noodles: Pair with lo mein, soba, or rice noodles for a fun twist.
- As a Side Dish: Enjoy with dumplings, egg rolls, or hot and sour soup for a full meal.
Tips
- Slice Chicken Thinly: Cutting the chicken against the grain ensures tender bites.
- Blanch the Broccoli: This keeps it bright green and crisp-tender while reducing stir-frying time.
- Use a Wok: A hot wok or skillet gives the best stir-fry texture.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): Add ½ teaspoon cornstarch to the sauce if you want a thicker glaze.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add red chili flakes or Sriracha for extra heat.
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or tempeh.
- Crunchy Twist: Toss in cashews, peanuts, or sesame seeds for extra texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Conclusion
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, easy, and healthy Asian-inspired meals. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with homemade takeout-style food. With a delicious savory sauce, tender chicken, and crisp veggies, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! However, blanch it for only 30 seconds before stir-frying to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Q: What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
A: Use extra soy sauce with a teaspoon of brown sugar for a similar umami taste.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Try adding baby corn, bell peppers, snow peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for more variety.
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a simple, delicious, and nutritious meal that you can customize and enjoy anytime! Give it a try and enjoy restaurant-style flavors right at home! 🍜🥢🔥