Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

There's nothing like a quick and flavorful stir fry to make dinnertime stress-free. This Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory, lightly sweet sauce that ties everything together perfectly.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a healthier alternative to takeout. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen—not just because it’s nutritious, but because it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on your table.

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Get ready to enjoy a meal that's as healthy as it is delicious. This stir fry is a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that will leave you satisfied without feeling heavy.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With only about 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you need something fast but nutritious.

Second, it's packed with health benefits. Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein, while fresh broccoli delivers essential vitamins and fiber, making this meal as nourishing as it is tasty.

It’s also budget-friendly. With simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create a fulfilling meal for a fraction of what takeout would cost.

Finally, this dish is versatile. You can switch up the protein, add extra vegetables, or even make it vegetarian. It’s easily customizable to suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating a flavorful, well-balanced dish.

Chicken breast is the star protein in this recipe. It’s lean, high in protein, and cooks quickly, making it perfect for a stir fry. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

Fresh broccoli adds a beautiful crunch and a boost of nutrients. Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it one of the healthiest vegetables you can include in your diet.

Garlic and ginger bring depth of flavor. Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide a bold, aromatic base that elevates the dish beyond your average stir fry.

Soy sauce and honey create a balanced sauce. The soy sauce provides umami, while a touch of honey adds natural sweetness, making the sauce irresistible. For a lower sodium option, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.

Cornstarch is essential for thickening the sauce. It helps the sauce cling to the chicken and broccoli, giving the dish its signature glossy finish.

A large skillet or wok is the best tool for making this stir fry. A wok’s high sides allow for easy tossing and even cooking, but a large skillet works well if that’s what you have on hand.

How To Make This Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Making this dish is as simple as cooking the chicken, steaming the broccoli, and tossing everything in a flavorful sauce.

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken absorb more of the delicious sauce. Lightly season it with salt and pepper.

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and let it heat up until it shimmers. Then, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice golden-brown sear before flipping. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Next, add a bit more oil to the pan and toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté them for a couple of minutes, then add a splash of water and cover the pan. This helps the broccoli steam while retaining its crisp texture and vibrant color. After about 3-4 minutes, remove the lid and continue cooking for another minute.

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch with a bit of water. Pour this sauce over the broccoli and stir well to coat.

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together until the sauce thickens and coats each piece beautifully. Serve hot with your favorite grain or enjoy it on its own!

Storage Options

This stir fry keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to refresh the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this stir fry is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations to try:

For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just be sure to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture so it crisps up nicely.

If you love spice, add a drizzle of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

For extra crunch and variety, throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. These colorful additions enhance both the texture and nutrition of the dish.

If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Try switching up the protein by using shrimp, beef, or even thinly sliced pork. Each brings a unique twist while keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

No matter how you customize it, this Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a foolproof recipe that will become a staple in your home. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal that beats takeout any day!

Print