Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry

Name: Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I've always loved quick, nutritious meals, and this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is now one of my favorites. It combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli and a delightful sauce made with simple ingredients. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. I’ve experimented with different vegetables and seasonings, and I’ve found that this combination works perfectly for a healthy weeknight dinner. It's a go-to recipe that my family enjoys time after time.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:29:36.739Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry, I was astonished by how simple yet delicious it turned out. I used fresh broccoli and tender chicken breasts, quickly stir-fried with garlic and ginger that made the entire kitchen fragrant. The key is to cook the ingredients on high heat while keeping everything moving in the pan, which helps to retain their colors and nutrients.

One tip I can't stress enough is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This not only speeds up the process but also ensures that your stir fry turns out perfect every time. The balance of flavors is simply satisfying, making it a dish worth repeating!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients and low in calories
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Flavorsome sauce that brings everything together

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh broccoli florets in this stir fry not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of the dish. Fresh broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, while also providing fiber, which aids in digestion. When selecting broccoli, look for tightly closed florets with vibrant green color. Avoid any yellowing as this indicates age and decreased quality. If fresh broccoli isn’t available, you can use frozen florets, but reduce the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Chicken breast is another star of this dish, and choosing high-quality meat makes a noticeable difference. I prefer using organic chicken for its superior flavor and ethical sourcing. When slicing the chicken, try to cut it into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. The marinating step not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it more enjoyable to eat. For a leaner option, you can substitute the chicken with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that requires some practice to perfect. The key is to keep the heat at a high temperature, which allows for a rapid cooking process that retains the ingredients' natural textures and colors. When adding the chicken to the hot oil, ensure that the pieces are spaced out to avoid steaming. If the chicken is overcrowded in the pan, it will take longer to brown, resulting in a less flavorful dish. If necessary, cook in batches for optimal results.

Another technique to bear in mind is to add ingredients based on their cooking time. In this recipe, the broccoli should be added after the chicken is cooked about halfway through. This way, the broccoli maintains its crispness while picking up the flavors from the chicken and the seasoning. You can check for doneness by looking for bright green florets that are tender but still have a slight bite, known as al dente.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful stir fry:

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Ensure everything is ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stir fry:

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, season the sliced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pan and stir-fry with the chicken for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the garlic and ginger, along with the remaining soy sauce. Cook for another minute to combine the flavors, then remove from heat.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand
bell peppers and snap peas work great too!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is great for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken and chop the broccoli the night before, storing them separately in the refrigerator. This will not only save time on the day of cooking but also allow the flavors to meld. I often prepare multiple portions for quick lunches during the week, and it stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days.

If you prefer to freeze it, store the stir-fry in freezer-safe containers. When stored correctly, it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in a skillet on medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to prevent drying out while reheating.

Variations and Add-Ins

While this recipe focuses on chicken and broccoli, it serves as a fantastic base for a plethora of variations. You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to diversify the flavor and texture profile. Just ensure that these vegetables have similar cooking times to the broccoli to maintain the stir fry's integrity. Alternatively, for a spicier option, a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha can add a delightful kick.

For lovers of Asian-inspired flavors, consider incorporating ingredients like oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for a richer taste. Often, a sprinkle of green onions or chopped cilantro right before serving can brighten the dish further. If you're keeping it low-carb, serve it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice, making it an even healthier meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can work, but ensure it's thawed and drained properly to prevent excess water in the stir fry.

→ How can I make this stir fry spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced fresh chili along with the garlic for an extra kick.

→ Can I substitute chicken for another protein?

Absolutely! This stir fry is excellent with shrimp, beef, or even tofu if you're looking for a vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

This stir fry pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal.