Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe Every home cook has that one recipe that suddenly makes weeknights easier. For me it was this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. It’s the kind of dish that comes together in minutes yet tastes like something you spent real time and care preparing. The first time I made it I was surprised at how deeply flavorful it was for something so simple. Tender pieces of chicken soft but crisp broccoli and a glossy savory sweet sauce that coats everything perfectly. One bowl and I knew this recipe was going to change the rhythm of my evenings.
The magic of this stir fry lies in the balance of flavors. Garlic and ginger add warmth and depth while soy sauce brings savory richness and a touch of sweetness rounds everything out. Broccoli stays vibrant with just the right crunch. The chicken cooks quickly staying juicy and tender. When everything comes together in the pan it becomes a complete meal that feels fresh satisfying and nourishing without requiring a long list of ingredients or hours of cooking.
I made this stir fry for the first time on a day when I had very little time but still wanted a real meal. Within fifteen minutes dinner was ready and the kitchen smelled like a cozy restaurant. When I sat down to eat the dish delivered exactly what I was craving. It was bright flavorful and comforting. The sauce clung to every bite and the broccoli kept its freshness even in the warm glossy coat. It was the perfect combination of speed simplicity and taste. From that moment this stir fry became my go to weeknight dinner. It turned rushed evenings into meals I actually looked forward to.
Let’s walk through how to make this life changing chicken and broccoli stir fry using simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
For the Chicken
1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts thinly sliced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Stir Fry Sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
2 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Vegetables
3 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes
Sesame seeds
Green onions
Chili flakes
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Season and Prep the Chicken
Coat sliced chicken with salt pepper and cornstarch. This step helps the chicken brown beautifully and stay tender in the sauce.
Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
In a bowl whisk soy sauce honey rice vinegar garlic ginger broth and cornstarch. This creates a glossy sauce that thickens quickly.
Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet. Cook chicken until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli
Add broccoli to the same pan. Sauté until bright green and crisp tender. A splash of water helps it steam.
Combine Everything
Return chicken to the pan. Pour sauce over. Stir as it thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli.
Serve Warm
Top with sesame seeds and green onions for freshness.
What This Stir Fry Tastes Like
Savory and Slightly Sweet
The sauce brings balance and depth.
Bright and Fresh
Broccoli adds crunch and color.
Tender and Juicy Chicken
Cornstarch coating keeps it soft and flavorful.
Restaurant Quality Flavor
But ready in minutes.
Tips for the Best Stir Fry
Slice Chicken Thinly
Ensures fast even cooking.
Do Not Overcook the Broccoli
Keep it crisp and vibrant.
Thicken the Sauce
Cornstarch gives the perfect glossy finish.
Cook on High Heat
Creates better browning and flavor.
Double the Sauce
If serving over rice or noodles.
Variations
Chicken Mushroom Stir Fry
Add mushrooms for earthiness.
Spicy Stir Fry
Add chili paste or sriracha.
Cashew Chicken Broccoli
Add roasted cashews for crunch.
Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with tofu.
How to Serve This Stir Fry
With Rice
Perfect for soaking up sauce.
With Noodles
Creates a complete takeout style meal.
In Meal Prep Bowls
Stays fresh and reheats beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerate
Keeps up to three days.
Freeze
Freeze cooked chicken separately from cooked broccoli for best texture.
Reheat
Warm gently to avoid overcooking vegetables.
Why This Recipe Changed My Weeknights
Fast and Easy
Dinner ready in minutes.
Healthy and Fresh
Protein and vegetables in one skillet.
Versatile
Works with many veggies and proteins.
Satisfying and Flavorful
Tastes like takeout but made at home.
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe Changed My Weeknights because it combines speed flavor and simplicity into one comforting meal. Once you try it you’ll understand why it becomes a weekly favorite.