Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry: A Quick and Healthy Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a symphony of flavors. This recipe is not just a quick meal; it’s a celebration of Asian culinary traditions that have been enjoyed for generations. Originating from the bustling streets of China, stir fry has become a beloved cooking method worldwide, known for its ability to preserve the nutrients and colors of fresh ingredients while delivering a satisfying crunch.

What I love most about Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is its incredible versatility. The combination of juicy chicken and crisp broccoli creates a perfect balance of taste and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. I like to have everything prepped and ready to go before I start cooking. 2. Take the chicken breast and slice it into thin strips. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. If you find it difficult to slice, you can freeze the chicken for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to cut. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. This will marinate the chicken slightly and enhance its flavor. Let it sit for about 15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Preparing the Vegetables

4. While the chicken is marinating, wash and chop your vegetables. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, and trim the ends of the snap peas. 5. Mince the garlic and ginger. I find that using a microplane for the ginger gives a nice fine texture that blends well into the stir fry. 6. Set all the vegetables aside in a bowl. This will help you keep track of everything and make the cooking process more efficient.

Making the Sauce

7. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This will create a thickening sauce that will coat the chicken and vegetables beautifully. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

Cooking Process

8. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. 9. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes without stirring. This will help develop a nice golden color on the chicken. 10. After 4 minutes, stir the chicken to cook it evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 11. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This prevents it from overcooking while you prepare the vegetables. 12. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. 13. Next, add the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. I love the vibrant colors and the crunch of the veggies at this stage! 14. Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together to ensure the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients. 15. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and bubble. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce clings to the chicken and vegetables, creating a glossy finish.

Assembling and Serving

16. Once everything is cooked and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the stir fry for an extra layer of flavor. Give it a gentle toss to mix. 17. Serve the chicken broccoli stir fry over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. I prefer jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma, but any rice or noodle will work beautifully. 18. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired. This adds a nice touch and a bit of crunch. 19. Enjoy your homemade chicken broccoli stir fry! It

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and health benefits. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, or add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to customize it to your taste. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a go. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry your own. Happy cooking! Print