Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Simple Meal Recipes
A quick and flavorful chicken broccoli stir fry that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
This chicken broccoli stir fry is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings everything together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings
- Packed with nutritious veggies and lean protein
- Flavorful sauce that complements the ingredients perfectly
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
Finding a quick and nutritious meal that everyone in the family will enjoy can be a challenge. This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this dish not only appeals to the eyes but also satisfies the taste buds. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables makes it a wholesome option that you can feel good about serving your loved ones.
What’s more, this stir fry can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes! It’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The quick preparation time means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterward.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Broccoli
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is not just delicious; it's also packed with health benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. It provides the body with the necessary nutrients to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Broccoli, on the other hand, is a nutritional powerhouse. It's loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of broccoli can promote digestive health, support the immune system, and may even help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Together, chicken and broccoli create a balanced meal that nourishes the body while pleasing the palate.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the best aspects of stir fry dishes is their versatility. While this recipe features chicken and broccoli, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also switch out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu to create a completely different dish.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning as well! If you enjoy a bit of heat, a splash of chili sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Experimenting with different sauces or adding nuts like cashews can also add unique flavors and textures to your stir fry.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking to ensure a smooth stir fry process.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes.
Stir Fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and bell pepper, stir frying for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Add the vegetables back into the skillet along with the minced garlic and oyster sauce. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious chicken broccoli stir fry!
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice, which complements the dish while adding additional nutrients. You can also add a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
For those who like a bit of crunch, top your stir fry with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the stir fry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the chicken and vegetables.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stir fry. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Why Homemade is Better
Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor meals to your family’s preferences. Homemade meals are often healthier than takeout, as you can use fresh ingredients and limit the amount of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. This Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is a prime example of how easy it is to create a delicious, nutritious meal in your own kitchen.
Additionally, preparing meals at home can be a fun bonding experience. Involve your kids in the cooking process, letting them help with washing vegetables or mixing sauces. This not only teaches them valuable cooking skills but can also foster a love for healthy eating.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the stir fry.
→ What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of soy sauce.
→ How can I make the stir fry spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce to the stir fry for some heat.
Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful chicken broccoli stir fry that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Simple Meal Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stir Fry
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and bell pepper, stir frying for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the vegetables back into the skillet along with the minced garlic and oyster sauce. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g