Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry (Quick, Healthy, Flavor-Packed)

If you want a reliable weeknight hero that’s fast, colorful, and full of flavor, this Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry delivers every time. You’ll marinate thin-sliced chicken for tenderness, flash-cook crisp veggies, and finish with a glossy, garlicky sauce that clings beautifully. It’s perfect for Easy Meals, Healthy Chicken Recipes, and Quick Dinner Ideas, and it scales well for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love It

• Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Balanced: lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a satisfying sauce.
• Versatile: serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Ingredients Overview

You’ll divide the ingredients into three simple parts: chicken, sauce, and veggies. Thin slicing and high heat are key for authentic stir-fry texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
• 1½ tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp rice vinegar

For the Veggies

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups carrots, sliced thin
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced

Ingredient Table

Step-by-Step Instructions

1) Marinate the Chicken

• In a medium bowl, combine thin-sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and red pepper flakes.
• Toss to coat thoroughly and set aside while you prep everything else. The cornstarch helps the chicken sear nicely and later thickens the sauce.

2) Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, hoisin, Sriracha, sugar, and rice vinegar until smooth.
• Keep this near the stove stir-fry moves fast.

3) Stir-Fry the Veggies

• Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add olive oil.
• When shimmering, add broccoli and carrots. Stir-fry, tossing constantly, until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
• Add garlic and ginger; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Transfer veggies to a large bowl.

4) Cook the Chicken

• Return the empty skillet or wok to high heat. Add the marinated chicken in an even layer.
• Stir-fry, stirring often, until browned and cooked through, about 4 minutes.

5) Combine and Finish

• Pour in the sauce and return the veggies to the pan.
• Toss to coat. The cornstarch from the chicken marinade will help thicken the sauce to a glossy finish as it bubbles.
• Taste and adjust: add a splash of soy for salt, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, or more Sriracha for heat.

6) Serve

• Serve hot over steamed rice, jasmine rice, brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
• Garnish with scallions or toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for Success

• Slice Thin: The thinner the chicken, the faster and more evenly it cooks.
• High Heat: Use high heat to sear without steaming; keep ingredients moving.
• Batch Smart: If your pan is small, sear the chicken in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Veg Texture: Pull veggies when they’re crisp-tender; they’ll soften slightly when tossed with the sauce.
• Make It Yours: Add snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms; swap hoisin for oyster sauce; or use low-sodium soy.

Variations

• Extra Veg: Add red bell pepper or snow peas for more color and crunch.
• Gluten-Friendly: Use tamari in place of soy sauce and verify hoisin brand.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to 1–2 tsp and balance with a little extra vinegar.
• Milder Heat: Halve the red pepper flakes and Sriracha.
• Protein Swap: Try thin-sliced pork tenderloin or firm tofu (press and cornstarch-dust).

Storage and Meal Prep

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• For meal prep, portion over rice in microwave-safe containers.

FAQ (Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry)

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes thaw and pat dry first to avoid watering down the sauce. Briefly stir-fry to evaporate excess moisture before combining.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Thin slicing and quick high-heat cooking help. The soy-cornstarch marinade also tenderizes and protects moisture.

Can I make it less spicy?

Absolutely reduce or omit red pepper flakes and Sriracha. You can always add heat at the table.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Add 1–2 tablespoons water or low-sodium chicken broth and simmer briefly to loosen.

What should I serve it with?

Steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein, or rice noodles all work well. For lighter options, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Ready for a weeknight win? Save this Broccoli Chicken Stir Fry to your boards, cook it tonight, and tag your plate so others can discover it too!