Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

There's nothing better than a quick and healthy meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. This Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings everything together in just the right way.

I discovered this recipe on a particularly busy weeknight when I needed something nutritious, delicious, and fast. After a bit of experimenting with flavors, I found the perfect combination that now has a permanent spot in our weekly meal rotation.

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner lineup. This stir fry is packed with flavor and nutrition while being incredibly easy to make.

First, it's quick! You can have this entire meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for hectic weeknights.

It's also loaded with healthy ingredients. Chicken breast provides lean protein, while broccoli delivers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to keep you feeling great.

Budget-friendly meals are always a win, and this recipe is made with simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Finally, it's endlessly customizable. Swap in different vegetables or tweak the sauce to match your taste preferences. This dish is versatile enough to suit everyone at the table.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe shines thanks to its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes it so delicious.

Chicken breast is the star protein in this dish. It cooks quickly and remains juicy when prepared correctly. If you prefer, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a bit more richness.

Broccoli adds crunch and a nutritional boost. Fresh broccoli is ideal, but frozen works well too—just be sure to thaw and drain it properly to avoid excess moisture in the stir fry.

Soy sauce and garlic form the base of the stir-fry sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option if you're watching your salt intake, and fresh garlic enhances the dish with its aromatic depth.

Honey or maple syrup adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce. This subtle touch rounds out the flavors beautifully.

You'll also need a thickening agent like cornstarch to give the sauce that classic, glossy texture. It ensures the sauce coats every bite of chicken and broccoli perfectly.

A good-quality wok or large skillet is helpful for stir-frying, as it allows for even heat distribution and quick cooking.

How To Make This Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Cooking this stir fry is a breeze! Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by slicing your chicken breast into thin, even strips. This ensures quick and even cooking. Toss the chicken in a small amount of soy sauce and cornstarch to lock in moisture and create a light, crispy texture when stir-fried.

Next, heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and let it get hot before adding the chicken. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil and toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. You want them to retain some crunch for the best texture.

While the broccoli cooks, mix together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, garlic, honey, and cornstarch mixed with water. Pour the sauce into the pan, stirring quickly to coat the broccoli.

Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients. This should take just another 1-2 minutes. Once everything is beautifully glazed, remove from heat and serve immediately.

This meal comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you need something both fast and nourishing.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this stir fry stores well! Simply let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how easily you can switch things up! Here are some ideas:

• Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef for a different protein option.
• Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and variety.
• Adjust the sweetness by using brown sugar instead of honey or maple syrup.
• For a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha to give the sauce a spicy kick.
• If you're gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own! However you customize it, this stir fry will always be a crowd-pleaser.

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