Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry
Tender chicken and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory garlic ginger sauce. This classic Chinese-American takeout favorite is so easy to make at home and ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Chicken
- b.In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1 tsp cornstarch, and white pepper.
- c.Mix thoroughly until each piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the other ingredients.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Stir-fry Sauce
- b.In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, 3 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the remaining 1 tsp of cornstarch.
- c.Whisk until the cornstarch and sugar are fully dissolved. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Blanch the Broccoli
- b.Bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- c.Add the broccoli florets and cook for 60-90 seconds, just until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender.
- d.Immediately drain the broccoli and rinse under cold running water (or plunge into an ice bath) to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Chicken
- b.Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat until it's very hot. Add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
- c.Carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if needed).
- d.Let the chicken sear for 2-3 minutes without moving, then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
- e.Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside on a plate.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble the Stir-fry
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-high. If the wok is dry, add a little more oil.
- c.Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Return the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli to the wok.
- e.Give the prepared sauce a final whisk, then pour it all over the chicken and broccoli.
- f.Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the sauce bubbles and thickens to a glossy consistency, coating everything evenly.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve
- b.Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
- c.Serve immediately with steamed jasmine or brown rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender chicken, don't skip the marinating step. The cornstarch creates a protective layer that keeps the chicken juicy.
- 2Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the chicken to get a proper sear rather than steaming it.
- 3Blanching the broccoli separately is the key to its vibrant green color and perfect crisp-tender texture.
- 4Stir-frying is a very fast cooking process. Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you turn on the heat.
- 5To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is certified gluten-free.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef sirloin, shrimp, or firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Add More VegetablesAdd More Vegetables
Incorporate other vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or water chestnuts. Add them with the garlic and ginger to cook briefly before adding the chicken and broccoli back.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry sauce for a spicy kick.
Add NutsAdd Nuts
Toss in a handful of roasted cashews or peanuts at the end for extra crunch and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Lean Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting metabolism, and promoting satiety.
Rich in Vitamins & Fiber
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with Vitamin C for immune support, Vitamin K for bone health, and dietary fiber for digestive wellness.
Immunity Boosting Properties
Garlic and ginger contain powerful compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help support a healthy immune system.
Supports Weight Management
This dish is high in protein and fiber but relatively low in calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal that can support weight management goals.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this stir-fry (without rice) contains approximately 380-420 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It's a relatively low-calorie, high-protein meal.