Introduction
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a dish that never fails to impress with its simplicity and flavor. This popular recipe is a staple in many households due to its quick preparation time and healthy ingredients. The combination of chicken and broccoli creates a well-balanced meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
The Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe has gained popularity over the years due to its ease of preparation and versatility. It can be served with a variety of sides, including rice, noodles, or additional vegetables. Whether you’re a busy professional or an avid home cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
The aroma of garlic and ginger fills the air as you cook this dish, making your kitchen feel cozy and inviting. The texture of the chicken and broccoli is perfectly balanced, with the crunch of the vegetables and the tenderness of the meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe is a winner in many ways. It’s quick, easy, and healthy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The main ingredients, chicken and broccoli, are readily available and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
The versatility of this stir-fry is another reason why you’ll love it. You can serve it with your favorite sides, add different seasonings, or substitute ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, this recipe can be adapted to suit your cravings.
The soy sauce and sesame oil add a depth of flavor to the dish, making it a true delight for the senses. With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, this Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or tamari. These alternatives will add a similar depth of flavor to the dish without the need for oyster sauce.
The chicken can be replaced with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version of the recipe. Simply marinate the tofu or tempeh in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic before cooking.
The broccoli can be substituted with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables to the stir-fry.
Equipment Needed
To make this Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment. These include:
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
With these tools, you’ll be able to prepare and cook the ingredients with ease.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) for cooking other ingredients.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
- Sauté the chicken in a pan with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broccoli to the pan and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes, until it starts to soften.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in any additional seasonings for 1 minute to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you cook the chicken and broccoli, make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning. The chicken should be browned on all sides, while the broccoli should be tender but still crisp.
The garlic and ginger should be sautéed until fragrant, filling the air with their aroma. The soy sauce and sesame oil should be added towards the end of cooking, allowing their flavors to meld with the chicken and broccoli.
Pro Tips & Tricks
To avoid overcooking the chicken or broccoli, make sure to stir constantly and adjust the heat as needed. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the pan if the ingredients start to dry out.
For variations, try adding different seasonings like chili flakes or lemon juice to the stir-fry. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or pork for a different protein source.
Some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Overcooking the chicken or broccoli
- Not stirring constantly
- Not adjusting the heat as needed
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a delicious and healthy Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations
This Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry can be served with a variety of sides, including:
- Rice
- Noodles
- Additional vegetables
For storage, refrigerate or freeze the leftovers for later use. Simply reheat the stir-fry in a pan or microwave until warmed through.
Some variations of this recipe include:
- Adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots
- Using different seasonings like chili flakes or lemon juice
- Substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving, this Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry contains:
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 115mg
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China and helps preserve nutrients in vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply thaw it before using and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate or freeze the leftovers for later use. Simply reheat the stir-fry in a pan or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh?
A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan version of the recipe. Simply marinate the tofu or tempeh in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic before cooking.
Q: What are some variations of this recipe?
A: Some variations of this recipe include adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, using different seasonings like chili flakes or lemon juice, or substituting the chicken with shrimp or pork.
Q: How do I avoid overcooking the chicken or broccoli?
A: To avoid overcooking the chicken or broccoli, make sure to stir constantly and adjust the heat as needed. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the pan if the ingredients start to dry out.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the stir-fry?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to the stir-fry, such as nuts or seeds, to give it extra flavor and texture. Simply stir-fry the ingredients until they’re toasted and fragrant, then add the chicken and broccoli to the pan.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your meal rotation. With its quick preparation time and versatile ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So why not give it a try and see how it becomes a staple in your kitchen?
Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes! I’d love to see your creations and hear your feedback.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (180°C) for cooking other ingredients.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
- Sauté the chicken in a pan with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broccoli to the pan and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes, until it starts to soften.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in any additional seasonings for 1 minute to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.