If you’re searching for a speedy yet utterly satisfying dinner, look no further: this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a perfect weeknight hero. With juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy, flavor-packed sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results right from your home kitchen. From the sizzle of fresh garlic and ginger to the irresistible umami punch of soy and oyster sauce, every component comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding family, meal prepping for the week, or just pampering yourself, you’ll fall in love with how easy, vibrant, and downright craveable this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one of those dishes where each simple ingredient really counts, from the juicy chicken to the savory sauces. Every item on the list brings its own delicious personality—texture, flavor, or that irresistible golden color that makes you want to dig in.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut bite-sized so they cook up tender and succulent every single time.
- Broccoli Florets: The vibrant green star of the show—use fresh for the best crunch, but frozen will do in a pinch.
- Vegetable Oil: Two tablespoons (divided) help sear the chicken beautifully and keep everything from sticking to the pan.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a powerful aromatic base to the stir fry.
- Ginger: That zingy, warming background flavor is one of the signatures of this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Salty, savory, and perfectly balanced, this is the backbone of the sauce.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds serious depth and a touch of sweetness—essential for authentic flavor.
- Cornstarch: Just a tablespoon transforms the sauce into a silky, restaurant-style glaze.
- Chicken Broth or Water: Adds moisture and a little extra punch; broth ramps up the umami.
- Brown Sugar: Just a tablespoon, but it rounds out all the savory flavors with the perfect hint of sweetness.
- Sesame Oil (optional): Aromatic and nutty—just a drizzle makes the dish taste extra special.
- Cooked White Rice: The classic base for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful sauce.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce
Start off by whisking up the sauce—this means less scrambling later! In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth or water, brown sugar, and a little sesame oil if you’re feeling fancy. Make sure it’s lump-free and glossy; this magical mixture is what will turn your Chicken and Broccoli Recipe into a saucy, crave-worthy meal.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Get your large skillet or wok nice and hot, add a tablespoon of oil, and spread out those chicken pieces in a single layer. Give them a good 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re lightly golden and cooked through. This not only locks in all the juicy flavor but gives your dish a gorgeous base. Once done, move the chicken out of the skillet and keep it close by—you’ll need it again in a sec.
Step 3: Stir Fry Aromatics and Broccoli
To that same hot skillet, pour in the remaining oil and toss in your garlic and ginger. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds (just until fragrant) before piling in the broccoli florets. Cook them for 3–4 minutes while tossing frequently—add a splash of water if you’d like softer broccoli or a steamy finish!
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Now for the grand reunion! Scoot the chicken back into the skillet, and pour that shimmering sauce all over. Stir thoroughly so every piece is coated, then keep cooking for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through. The broccoli should be tender yet a little snappy. Serve piping hot over fluffy rice.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions can turn a humble Chicken and Broccoli Recipe into a dish that looks (and tastes) totally restaurant-worthy. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. A little drizzle of extra sesame oil is always a welcome touch too!
Side Dishes
The beauty of this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is that it goes with almost anything. A scoop of steamed jasmine or brown rice is classic, but you could try serving with fried rice for an extra treat. If you’d like something fresh, toss together a simple cucumber salad or add some sliced bell peppers to the mix.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, serve your Chicken and Broccoli Recipe in individual bowls or on a large platter, family-style. Fill lettuce cups for a fresh, hand-held version, or roll into wraps with rice for a fun meal prep lunch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colorful veggies or top with crunchy chopped peanuts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Chicken and Broccoli Recipe, lucky you! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get even richer overnight, making for the ultimate easy lunch or speedy dinner reboot.
Freezing
This Chicken and Broccoli Recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let everything cool first, then pack into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge for best texture—or use the microwave for a quick fix.
Reheating
To bring your Chicken and Broccoli Recipe back to life, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. Microwave works in a pinch, but stovetop will keep everything tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative in this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. They have a little more fat and flavor, and stay super juicy. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook until done.
Can I make this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute tamari for the soy sauce and double-check that your oyster sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free. The result is just as delicious and friendly to those avoiding gluten.
How can I add more veggies?
Go wild! Sliced bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or even carrots work beautifully with this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. Just be sure to chop them to similar sizes so everything cooks evenly.
What if I want it spicier?
A few dashes of sriracha, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or even some diced fresh chilies will turn up the heat nicely. You can add the spice while you stir fry or as a finishing touch at the table.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can pre-chop the chicken and veggies, mix up the sauce, and store everything separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, everything comes together in less than 15 minutes—a major weeknight win!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Chicken and Broccoli Recipe! It’s a little bit comfort food, a little bit takeout-fakeout, and always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try this week, and see just how easy and delicious homemade can be.
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Chicken and Broccoli stir-fry recipe with a savory sauce, perfect for a quick Asian-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet, cook chicken until browned. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry: Stir-fry garlic and ginger, then add broccoli. Cook until tender-crisp.
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and cook until thickened.
- Serve: Serve hot over rice.
Notes
- You can blanch the broccoli briefly before stir-frying if you prefer it softer.
- Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
- This dish is also great with sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (without rice)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
