Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Flavor-packed healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry made with chicken, broccoli, and a thick and sticky stir fry sauce to bring it all together. This quick dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Ready in just 30 minutes and made in one pan, it’s an easy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not only delicious but also gluten-free, paleo, and Whole30 compliant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish after a long day.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli, this stir fry is both healthy and satisfying.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.
• Flavorful Sauce: The thick stir fry sauce combines coconut aminos, lime juice, and sesame oil for a delightful taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delicious stir fry, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or nonstick pan
• Whisk
• Small bowl or jar for mixing sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or nonstick pan: Ideal for even cooking without sticking, making it perfect for stir fries.
• Whisk: Ensures that sauces are well mixed without lumps, giving you a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Stir Fry

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 7 cups broccoli florets (465 grams/about 2 heads)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons chicken broth (plus more for cooking if desired)
• 1/2 cup coconut aminos
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon tapioca flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings and Serving Suggestions

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions
• Cilantro

For serving: white rice or cauliflower rice.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl or jar, combine:
1. Coconut aminos
2. 1/2 cup broth
3. Lime juice
4. Toasted sesame oil
5. Garlic
6. Ginger
7. Red pepper flakes
8. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. In another jar, prepare a slurry by mixing:
1. 2 tablespoons broth
2. Tapioca flour

Whisk until smooth and set both mixtures aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil until hot.
2. Add sliced chicken to the pan in batches (do not overcrowd).
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook each side for 30-60 seconds until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from the pan once done; repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

Using the same skillet:
1. Leave any juices from the chicken in the pan.
2. Add broccoli along with salt and pepper; mix well.
3. Cover with a lid, cooking for 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Add additional broth if needed to help steam the broccoli.
5. Once cooked, remove broccoli from the skillet.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Lower heat to medium-low:
1. Allow pan to cool for about 30-60 seconds.
2. Whisk your slurry again to ensure no clumps remain.
3. Pour in both the stir fry sauce mixture and slurry into the pan; whisk together.
4. Increase heat back to medium; cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes) until it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Assemble

Return cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet:
1. Stir everything together gently to combine.
2. Heat through for about 1 minute until warmed.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Top with optional sesame seeds and green onions before serving alongside white rice or cauliflower rice!

Now you have a delicious Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry ready to be savored!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Serving Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is easy and can be customized to suit your taste. This dish pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

With Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the flavors of the stir fry perfectly.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that provides a light base while still being filling.

Toppings

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and a pop of color.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the dish with an aromatic touch.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps for a fun, low-carb meal option.
• Whole Wheat Tortillas: Fill tortillas with the stir fry for a heartier take on the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

To achieve the best Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures even cooking for the chicken.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer; for thinner, add more broth.
• Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan helps to sear the chicken quickly, locking in the juices.
• Taste as You Cook: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for personalized flavor enhancement.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Complementing your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice that balances the savory flavors of your stir fry.
2. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad mixed with vegetables adds texture and health benefits.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp green beans tossed in garlic provide a crunchy contrast.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers dressed in vinegar offer a cool palate cleanse.
5. Stir-Fried Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles stir-fried with vegetables make an excellent pairing.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring sweetness to balance out savory flavors in the stir fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the marinade. Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let your chicken soak in the sauce for thicker flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli. Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by sautéing it for just 5-7 minutes.
• Using low-quality oil. Cheap oils can burn quickly and affect taste. Opt for high-quality olive or sesame oil for better flavor and health benefits.
• Crowding the pan. Overcrowding can steam rather than sear your chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Not thickening the sauce properly. Failing to use a slurry may result in a watery sauce. Always whisk your slurry well before adding it to the pan for a perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly into the pan without thawing, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

You can serve this stir fry with white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas based on your personal preference.

Is this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free when using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chop ingredients ahead of time for quicker cooking during meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize with other vegetables or proteins as desired. Give this healthy dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!