If you’re in search of a fast, fail-proof dinner packed with flavor and freshness, Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection. This classic stir fry delivers tender bites of juicy chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and an irresistible savory sauce—making it one of those go-to meals you’ll crave again and again. You’ll love how this dish combines everyday ingredients into something so satisfying, and you definitely won’t miss the takeout menu once you’ve made this at home!

Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in creating bold flavors, comforting textures, and that characteristic colorful appeal. Here’s what you need, plus some pro tips for best results:

Chicken breast: Thinly sliced boneless, skinless breasts cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
Broccoli florets: The crisp-tender green crunch keeps the whole dish feeling fresh and light.
Vegetable oil: Grants a high smoke point for stir-frying, ensuring the chicken and veggies sear perfectly without burning.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that punchy, aromatic background note you expect in a stir fry.
Fresh ginger: Adds brightness and classic warmth; grating it ensures it melds right into the sauce.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Balances salt and umami without overpowering the dish—perfect for the sauce base.
Oyster sauce: Contributes depth, richness, and a touch of sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it perfectly coats every bite of chicken and broccoli.
Brown sugar: Just a tablespoon adds a subtle sweetness, enhancing and balancing savory elements.
Chicken broth or water: Loosens up the sauce and adds moisture—use broth for even more flavor.
Sesame oil: Just a small drizzle at the end brings signature nutty, toasty notes.
Cooked rice: The ideal fluffy bed for soaking up all that tasty sauce—use white or brown, your choice!
Sesame seeds and green onions: Sprinkle over the top as a final flourish for crunch and color; totally optional, but delightful.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

Start by grabbing a small mixing bowl and whisking together your soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, chicken broth (or water), and sesame oil. This creates your rich, glossy stir fry sauce. Set it aside for a moment—you’ll want it ready to go for fast action once the heat is on!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat half of your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high warmth. Add the sliced chicken and cook for four to five minutes, stirring occasionally, until pieces are sweetly golden and cooked through. Don’t crowd the pan, as a little breathing room lets the chicken caramelize. Once done, move the chicken to a plate and keep it nearby.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Broccoli, Garlic, and Ginger

Add the rest of your oil to the now-empty skillet. Toss in the broccoli florets and give them a good sizzle for two to three minutes until they brighten up but still keep that lovely snap. Stir in the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute—inhale and enjoy that amazing aroma wafting up!

Step 4: Combine Everything & Finish the Sauce

Bring the chicken back into the pan along with any resting juices. Pour in your homemade sauce and toss everything together. Let it bubble gently for another two to three minutes. Watch as the sauce thickens and turns glossy, ensuring every bit of chicken and broccoli is thoroughly coated in flavor.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Fresh

Spoon the Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry over a bed of steamy rice. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds and green onion slices if you like a little extra color and crunch. This is a dish best enjoyed straight from the pan—fragrant, saucy, and loaded with texture!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry

Garnishes

A sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions gives Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry a beautiful finish and a pleasant crunch. For even more color, try adding a few thinly sliced red chili peppers or a quick drizzle of chili oil for a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

This stir fry is made to shine over a bowl of fluffy steamed jasmine or brown rice, but you can also serve it alongside noodles, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a twist. A side of simple steamed dumplings or fresh cucumber salad is a fun way to round out your dinner spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry up a notch by serving it in individual bowls, topped with extra garnishes for a restaurant-style feel. Or, serve it family-style on a large platter for easy sharing. For lunch prep, pack it into meal-prep containers with rice for grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry keeps remarkably well in the fridge! Simply let everything cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen a bit overnight, making leftovers especially satisfying for next-day lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the stir fry for longer storage, though the broccoli may soften a little after thawing. Place cooled servings in freezer-safe containers or zip bags, squeezing out extra air, and freeze for up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat so the chicken stays juicy and the sauce comes back to life. Add a small splash of water or broth if it’s looking a little thick. Alternatively, the microwave works fine—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and add a richer flavor to Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry. Just trim any excess fat and slice thinly for best results.

What other vegetables can I add to this stir fry?

Feel free to get creative—snow peas, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots all mix in beautifully. Just chop everything to similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out regular soy sauce for tamari and double-check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry safely.

How can I make the stir fry sauce spicier?

For added heat, stir in a teaspoon of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to your sauce before adding it to the pan. Taste and adjust to your preference.

Can I prep this ahead for meal-prep lunches?

Certainly! Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep. Just divide into containers with rice, let cool, and refrigerate for stress-free, nourishing meals all week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that’s big on flavor and oh-so-simple to whip up, Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry truly delivers. There’s something irresistibly comforting about this classic combo, and the homemade sauce takes it miles above the usual takeout. Give this recipe a try and see how quickly it becomes a weeknight favorite in your house!