This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s healthier than takeout and ready in just 30 minutes.
Made with tender chunks of seared chicken, crisp broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet garlic ginger stir fry sauce—it’s the perfect go-to when you want something satisfying and easy.
Whether you’re serving it over steamed rice or keeping things low-carb with cauliflower rice, this chicken stir fry delivers bold flavor and balanced nutrition in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fast and easy – Done in under 30 minutes
Healthier than takeout – Fresh ingredients, no added MSG
Perfectly balanced sauce – Savory, sweet, garlicky, and gingery
Versatile – Great with rice, noodles, or veggie swaps
Family-friendly – Mild but flavorful
One-pan dinner – Easy cleanup
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick searing
Broccoli florets – Crisp-tender and packed with nutrients
White mushrooms – Add umami and texture
Yellow onion – Sliced for sweetness and depth
Chicken broth – Forms the savory base of the sauce
Soy sauce – Use low-sodium or Tamari for gluten-free
Brown sugar or honey – For a touch of sweetness
Corn starch – Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish
Sesame oil – Adds aroma and depth
Fresh garlic and ginger – Essential for that authentic stir-fry flavor
Black pepper – To lightly season the chicken
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use warm broth – It helps dissolve the sugar and starch faster
Sear chicken without moving it – This gives you a golden crust
Cut broccoli evenly – So it cooks at the same rate
Keep the heat high – Stir fry needs quick, hot cooking
Add more soy sauce to taste – Everyone likes a different salt level
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
⅔ cup low sodium chicken broth
3 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
2 Tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
1 Tbsp corn starch
1 Tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp grated garlic
¼ tsp black pepper
Set aside while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Cut 1 lb chicken breast into ¾-inch pieces. Season lightly with black pepper.
Heat 1 Tbsp cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add chicken in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed for 1 minute.
Stir fry for about 5 more minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove from the pan and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp oil.
Add 1 lb broccoli florets, 1 small sliced yellow onion, and ½ lb thick-sliced mushrooms.
Stir fry for 3–4 minutes, until mushrooms soften and broccoli is crisp-tender.
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Finish
Give the sauce a quick stir (corn starch may settle), then pour it over the veggies.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened and aromatic.
Add a splash of water if it becomes too thick.
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir for another 30 seconds until heated through.
Adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if needed.
What to Serve With Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – A classic base
Brown rice or cauliflower rice – Healthier options
Ramen or rice noodles – For a lo mein-style twist
Asian cucumber salad – Refreshing and crunchy side
Spring rolls or dumplings – For a full takeout-style meal
Variations & Substitutions
Swap chicken for shrimp or beef – Adjust cooking time as needed
Use bell peppers or snap peas – Great veggie additions
Make it spicy – Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes
Gluten-free option – Use Tamari instead of soy sauce
Vegan version – Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer – Not ideal due to texture changes, but possible for up to 1 month
Reheat – In a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in short bursts
Meal prep tip – Store rice and stir fry separately for best results
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and work well here—just trim excess fat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use Tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely—mix it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge.
Is this dish spicy?
Not at all. It’s mild, but you can add heat with chili oil or sriracha.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp-tender?
Don’t overcook—3 to 4 minutes on high heat is usually perfect.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just cook the chicken in two batches so it sears properly.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is fast, flavorful, and full of texture.
Whether you’re new to stir fry or a weeknight dinner pro, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with fresh, simple ingredients—all in just one pan.
It’s a healthy takeout-style dish that’s sure to become part of your regular dinner rotation.
