Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Flavor-packed healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry made with chicken, broccoli, and a thick and sticky stir fry sauce to bring it all together. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, as it’s ready in just 30 minutes and only requires 11 simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and nutritious profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and green veggies, this meal is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich sauce combines coconut aminos with fresh ginger and garlic, adding depth to every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

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: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and vegetables evenly without sticking.
• Small bowl or jar for mixing sauce: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that sauces are well-mixed, helping to achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredients

Flavor-packed healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry made with chicken, broccoli, and a thick and sticky stir fry sauce to bring it all together. It’s made in one pan, ready in 30 minutes, and only calls for 11 ingredients! Gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30.

For the Stir Fry

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 7 cups broccoli florets (465 grams/about 2 heads)

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• 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 coconut aminos, 1/2 cup broth, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. In another small jar, create a slurry by combining 2 tablespoons of broth with tapioca flour; whisk until smooth. Set both mixtures aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your large skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add sliced chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Season with salt and pepper. Cook each piece for about 30-60 seconds on each side until golden brown. Remove cooked chicken from the pan before repeating with remaining slices.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

With the chicken juices still in the pan, add broccoli florets along with salt and pepper. Mix well then cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally. If necessary, add a splash of broth to help steam the broccoli. Once tender but still crisp, remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low for about a minute to let the pan cool slightly. Rewhisk the slurry to break up any clumps then pour both the sauce mixture and slurry into the pan. Stir continuously until thickened—this should take around 3-5 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Return both cooked chicken pieces and sautéed broccoli back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together until heated through—about one minute will suffice.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Top your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with optional sesame seeds and green onions before serving it alongside your choice of white rice or cauliflower rice!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Serving your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is all about complementing its flavors and adding variety to your meal. Here are some delicious suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A lower-carb option that offers a great texture while keeping the dish light.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh crunch and a burst of flavor.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro enhances the dish with its aromatic notes.

With Extra Crunch

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle additional chili flakes for an extra kick.

How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Perfecting your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can elevate this dish to new heights. Follow these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and chicken enhance both taste and nutrition.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: Slice chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures proper browning.
• Whisk the Sauce Well: Ensure no clumps form by whisking thoroughly before adding to the pan.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use more or less tapioca flour based on your preferred sauce consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for perfect flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light, fluffy, and fragrant, it complements the stir fry beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables adds protein and texture.
3. Stir-Fried Noodles: Tossed with veggies, this side adds a chewy contrast to your meal.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the stir fry.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness provides a lovely contrast to savory flavors.
6. Sauteed Snow Peas: Crisp snow peas add color and additional crunch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take time to mix the marinade ingredients and let the chicken absorb them for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve a nice golden color and better texture.
• Neglecting the Sauce Consistency: A thin sauce won’t cling well to the chicken and broccoli. Make sure to use a slurry with tapioca flour to thicken it properly.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted broccoli affects taste and texture. Always choose fresh, vibrant broccoli for the best results.
• Not Adjusting Cooking Times: Different stove types may require adjustments in cooking times. Keep an eye on your ingredients and adjust as needed for optimal doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry.

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

What can I substitute for coconut aminos?

You can use soy sauce or tamari as an alternative, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference.

How do I make this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry gluten-free?

Ensure that any sauces you use are certified gluten-free, especially if using soy sauce alternatives.

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

Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead of time and store separately. Combine just before serving for freshness.

Is this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from broccoli while being low in carbs.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables according to your preferences. Give it a try for a quick weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!