Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe – Quick 20-Minute
As the season transitions to vibrant autumn, there’s nothing quite like the comforting notion of creating a wholesome meal that celebrates fresh produce. If you’re craving something quick, delicious, and packed with nutrients, look no further than the "Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry." This delightful dish is not only a feast for the senses with its vivid colors and tantalizing aroma, but it’s also a wholesome choice packed with protein and fiber.
Picture this: tender chicken breast glazed in a savory sauce, paired with crisp, bright green broccoli florets—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! The best part? You can whip up this stunning stir-fry in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or simply looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe is here to rescue you. So, roll up those sleeves, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s make dinner happen!
Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients
- 300g (10.5 oz) Chicken Breast – Thinly sliced; you can also use thighs for a juicier bite.
- 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets – Tender and crisp; quick to cook!
- 1 Red Bell Pepper – Sliced; adds sweetness and color.
- 3 cloves Garlic – Minced; the aromatic base for flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger – Minced; adds a zing to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce – For the umami depth (use low-sodium if preferred).
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce – Optional but enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil – Such as vegetable or sesame oil; for sautéing.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste; season as you go!
- Cooked Rice or Noodles – To serve with the stir-fry.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok – A wide surface helps in even cooking.
- Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping ingredients.
- Measuring spoons – Precision in cooking is key!
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For stirring and serving.
- Bowls – To prep the sauce and toss ingredients.
Helpful Tips
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing chicken and vegetables quick and easy.
- Mise en Place: Prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking. This creates a smooth workflow during cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips—this ensures even cooking. Next, chop the broccoli into florets that are roughly the same size, so they cook uniformly. Slice the bell pepper and mince the garlic and ginger.
Tip: If you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-sliced chicken or frozen broccoli to speed things up.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. This mixture will create a delicious glaze for your stir-fry that clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to ensure it sears rather than stews.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the sliced chicken to the hot skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Tip: To avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This helps achieve a lovely sear.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Once the chicken is golden brown, push it to one side of the skillet, and add the remaining oil. Toss in the broccoli florets, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat the ingredients well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy the colorful and flavorful medley while it’s hot!
Variations:
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute chicken for tofu or tempeh.
- Add More Veggies: Consider snow peas, carrots, or even snap peas for added crunch and flavor.
Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep your ingredients the night before or the morning of—slice your chicken, wash and chop your broccoli, and even mix the sauce. This way, you’re just minutes away from a home-cooked meal!
How to Use / Serve This Dish
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is incredibly versatile! Pair it with fluffy jasmine rice or toss it over noodles for a heartier option. For added texture, you might sprinkle some sesame seeds on top or add chopped nuts.
Consider serving it alongside a simple salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed dumplings for an Asian-inspired feast. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of chili oil for a spicy kick!
FAQ Section
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in stir-fries. Just add it directly to the skillet without thawing for best results.
2. What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use shrimp, beef, tofu, or even tempeh as a protein substitute, depending on your preference.
3. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
4. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?
Certainly! You can replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade sauce using broth and spices if you prefer.
5. Why does my sauce not thicken?
If the sauce doesn’t thicken, ensure you’re using enough cornstarch or allow it to cook longer. You can also add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water to help.
Final Thoughts / Encouragement
As you gather around the table for this Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, take a moment to savor more than just the flavors—the joy of home cooking and the comfort it brings to our lives is irreplaceable. The vibrant colors and irresistible aroma will surely warm not just your stomach but your spirit, especially as we embrace the cozy, seasonal gatherings ahead.
I invite you to try this quick 20-minute recipe, share it with your loved ones, and create beautiful memories around meals. So, grab those ingredients, follow the steps, and let the love of cooking fill your home. When you do, don’t forget to come back and tell me how it turned out! Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 300 g Chicken Breast – Thinly sliced You can also use thighs for a juicier bite.
- 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets – Tender and crisp Quick to cook!
- 1 Red Bell Pepper – Sliced Adds sweetness and color.
- 3 cloves Garlic – Minced The aromatic base for flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger – Minced Adds a zing to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce For the umami depth (use low-sodium if preferred).
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce Optional but enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil Such as vegetable or sesame oil; for sautéing.
- Salt & Pepper To taste; season as you go!
- Cooked Rice or Noodles To serve with the stir-fry.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips—this ensures even cooking. Next, chop the broccoli into florets that are roughly the same size, so they cook uniformly. Slice the bell pepper and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Tip: If you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-sliced chicken or frozen broccoli to speed things up.
Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. This mixture will create a delicious glaze for your stir-fry that clings beautifully to the chicken and vegetables.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to ensure it sears rather than stews.
- Add the sliced chicken to the hot skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Tip: To avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This helps achieve a lovely sear.
Add the Vegetables
- Once the chicken is golden brown, push it to one side of the skillet, and add the remaining oil. Toss in the broccoli florets, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp.
Combine and Finish
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat the ingredients well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy.
Serve
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy the colorful and flavorful medley while it's hot!
