If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal, this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something nutritious and delicious on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and chopping the garlic and ginger finely. Measure out the broccoli florets and set them aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Spray a 12-inch non-stick skillet with cooking spray and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in 3/4 cup of chicken broth, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover again and cook for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Stir this mixture into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the dish is ready, serve the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips
- Serve Immediately: This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is best served fresh from the skillet. The tender chicken and crisp broccoli are most flavorful and enjoyable when hot.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve the stir fry over a bed of steamed white or brown rice, or alongside noodles like lo mein or rice noodles. You can also complement the meal with a light side dish, such as a cucumber salad or steamed dumplings.
- Garnishing Options: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil on top for extra flavor and presentation.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help reheat the sauce and keep the chicken moist.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove. Freezing may slightly change the texture of the broccoli, but the dish will still be delicious.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, avoid overcooking the stir fry to prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and maintain the dish’s original texture and flavor.
Variations:
1. Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Add a spicy kick by incorporating 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a chopped chili pepper into the sauce. Adjust the level of heat according to your preference for a fiery twist.
2. Chicken and Broccoli with Cashews
Enhance the dish with a crunchy texture by adding 1 cup of roasted cashews along with the broccoli. The cashews add a delightful nutty flavor and additional protein.
3. Lemon-Ginger Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
For a fresh and zesty flavor, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce. This variation adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the ginger.
4. Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Replace the soy sauce and sugar with 3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce. This variation provides a sweeter, more savory flavor with a hint of umami.
5. Chicken and Broccoli with Bell Peppers
Add color and sweetness by including 1 cup of sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) along with the broccoli. The bell peppers cook quickly and add a vibrant crunch.
6. Garlic and Ginger Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
For an extra burst of garlic and ginger flavor, increase the amount of garlic and ginger to 3 cloves of garlic and 3 teaspoons of ginger. This will enhance the aromatic qualities of the dish.
7. Sesame Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Add a nutty flavor by stirring in 1-2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil at the end of cooking. This variation adds depth and a subtle crunch.
8. Spicy Peanut Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Mix 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the sauce for a creamy, nutty twist. You can also add 1-2 teaspoons of chili paste for a spicy, peanut-flavored stir fry.
9. Chicken and Broccoli with Mushrooms
Include 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the stir fry for added umami and texture. The mushrooms complement the chicken and broccoli and add an earthy flavor.
10. Low-Carb Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth and soy sauce are low in sodium and sugar.
These variations allow you to customize the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry to fit different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring a fresh and exciting meal every time!
FAQs:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the stir fry. Frozen broccoli might need a slightly shorter cooking time compared to fresh.
2. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. Adjust the cooking times based on the protein you choose—shrimp will cook quickly, while beef or pork may need a bit longer.
3. How can I make the stir fry spicier?
To add spice, incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or finely chopped chili peppers into the sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat.
4. Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth as a substitute for chicken broth. Keep in mind that the flavor of the stir fry may change slightly based on the type of broth used.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the stir fry gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
7. How do I keep the broccoli from becoming too soft?
To keep the broccoli tender-crisp, avoid overcooking it. Add it to the skillet at the right time and cook just until it turns bright green and is tender but still has some crunch.
8. Can I use a different type of vegetable in this stir fry?
Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times for different vegetables as needed.
9. How can I thicken the sauce more if needed?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch in the slurry or cook the sauce a little longer to reduce it further. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
10. Can I freeze this stir fry?
Yes, you can freeze the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
These FAQs should help address common questions and ensure that your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time!
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try out some of the variations, this dish is versatile, delicious, and satisfying. Enjoy it fresh, and don’t forget to store any leftovers for a quick meal later in the week!