Chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles was the first Asian-style dinner I truly nailed at home—and ever since, it’s been my go-to over ordering takeout. The flavor is bold, the texture is perfect, and it all comes together in just one sizzling skillet.
This dish isn’t just a personal favorite—it’s also part of a growing trend in home cooking. With more families ditching delivery for easy stir fry dinners and Asian-inspired meals like rasa malaysia garlic noodles, recipes like chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles are quickly becoming weeknight staples.
Table of Contents
Why Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles is a Weeknight Hero
Quick to Cook, Easy to Love
If fast, flavorful, and family-friendly are on your dinner checklist, chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles will not disappoint. It takes just 20–30 minutes to cook from scratch, making it the ultimate solution for hectic evenings. Plus, with one-pan cleanup, you save time in the kitchen and spend more time enjoying your meal.
Family-Friendly and Flavor-Loaded
Between the tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory noodles, this chicken and broccoli dinner checks all the boxes—especially if you’ve got picky eaters at home. The noodles soak up all that delicious sauce, giving you a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and totally customizable.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Noodle Pot
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp ginger grated
- 8 oz noodles ramen, rice, or udon
- 2 tbsp Kikkoman stir fry sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp oyster sauce optional
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Cook noodles separately, set aside.
- Heat oil in wok, cook chicken until golden. Remove.
- Stir fry garlic, ginger, and broccoli.
- Return chicken, add noodles and sauce. Toss until coated.
- Serve hot with toppings like sesame seeds or green onions.
Notes
Nutrition
This version is one of the most practical variations. See how it compares to other delicious chicken stir fry variations that work for any schedule.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Staples for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles
When it comes to making a great chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles, fresh, simple ingredients are all you need. The base is made up of easy-to-find staples that pack bold flavor and satisfying texture.
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner choice, or go with chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh is best for that perfect tender-crisp bite, but frozen works in a pinch.
- Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced adds authentic zing to your stir fry.
- Kikkoman stir fry sauce: A shortcut to umami-rich depth. You can also use tamari or low-sodium soy sauce.
- Noodles: Use what you have—ramen, rice noodles, or even thick udon noodles all work beautifully.
- Optional add-ons: A drizzle of sesame oil, a dash of oyster sauce, or a squeeze of lime can layer in more flavor.
Smart Substitutions and Flavor Upgrades
Want to turn this into your own signature dish? Start by playing with a few upgrades and swaps that can match your taste or dietary needs:
- Swap out the protein: Use tofu or shrimp in place of chicken.
- Try different noodles: Egg noodles give a chewy texture, while soba noodles add a nutty bite.
- Mix in veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas pair perfectly with chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles.
- Use pre-cooked chicken: A great hack if you’ve got leftovers or rotisserie chicken on hand.
Want a healthier spin using clean ingredients? Check out this healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry recipe for a lighter twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Quick and Simple Method for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles
Making chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles at home is fast, simple, and super forgiving—even for beginners. Here’s a breakdown to help you get restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen:
- Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the chicken into thin strips (against the grain for tenderness).
- Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Mince garlic and ginger for extra punch.
- If using dry noodles like ramen or udon, boil them until just shy of done—they’ll finish cooking in the stir fry.
- Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine Kikkoman stir fry sauce, soy sauce or tamari, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a bit of honey or brown sugar.
- Add red pepper flakes for spice or a spoon of peanut butter for creamy texture.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high.
- Sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Remove and set aside.
- Stir Fry the Veggies
- In the same pan, toss in garlic and ginger first. Then add broccoli.
- Stir fry until the broccoli turns bright green and slightly tender, around 3–4 minutes.
- Combine and Toss
- Add noodles and chicken back to the pan.
- Pour sauce over everything and stir until coated and sizzling.
- Cook another 2–3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Baked Noodle Twist: A Comfort-Food Version
Want to switch it up? Try a baked version inspired by chicken broccoli pasta bake Jamie Oliver–style. It’s a creamy twist that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
- After stir frying, transfer everything into a casserole dish.
- Mix with a touch of cream, shredded cheese, or coconut milk.
- Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
If you’re new to this type of meal, our complete chicken and broccoli stir fry guide will walk you through everything—from prep to plating.
Make It Healthier (or Gluten-Free!)
Lighter Swaps for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles
Craving that rich, satisfying flavor of chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles without the heaviness? Good news—this dish is super adaptable for lighter eating. Whether you’re reducing carbs or cutting calories, these easy tweaks let you enjoy all the flavor without the guilt.
- Noodle Alternatives: Try broccoli rice from Aldi, spiralized zucchini, or shirataki noodles to lower carb intake.
- Lean Proteins: Opt for skinless chicken breast or even tofu for a plant-based switch.
- Low-Sugar Sauces: Make your own with coconut aminos, garlic, and a dash of rice vinegar. Store-bought sauces often hide added sugars.
Gluten-Free Stir Fry? Totally Doable
Eating gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out on your favorite noodle bowl. With a few swaps, chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles becomes a safe, satisfying option for anyone avoiding gluten.
- Choose Gluten-Free Noodles: Look for rice noodles, glass noodles, or certified gluten-free udon.
- Use Tamari Instead of Soy Sauce: It’s naturally gluten-free and has a rich, salty flavor.
- Check Your Sauce Labels: Many stir fry sauces (like some versions of Kikkoman) contain wheat. Always read the label or make your own.
Stir Fry Sauce Variations to Try
Upgrade Your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles with Bold Sauces
A great stir fry is only as good as its sauce—and luckily, chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles works with tons of flavor combinations. Whether you want it spicy, savory, tangy, or sweet, there’s a sauce variation for every tastebud.
Let’s break down a few popular options beyond your go-to Kikkoman stir fry sauce chicken and broccoli blend.
Sauce Variations to Mix Things Up
- Spicy Garlic Soy Sauce
Combine soy sauce (or tamari), chili paste, minced garlic, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. It’s bold, hot, and perfect for spice lovers. - Honey-Ginger Stir Fry Sauce
Sweet and slightly tangy, this sauce uses grated ginger, honey, light soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Great with both chicken and tofu. - Sesame Peanut Sauce
Creamy and nutty, this one pairs peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, a dash of lime juice, and sriracha. A crowd-pleaser for noodle stir fry fans. - Teriyaki-Style Glaze
Thicker and sweeter, use a mix of soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and garlic to make a fast, sticky sauce. Works well in both skillet and baked versions.
Pro Tips for Saucing Your Noodles
- Always add your sauce last—once your noodles and protein are cooked and combined.
- Want extra flavor? Let the sauce simmer 1–2 minutes to thicken and cling to your noodles better.
- Make extra and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
One great place to start is this flavor-packed chicken and broccoli stir fry sauce — easy to make and endlessly flexible.
Add-Ins and Side Ideas
Take Your Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Noodles to the Next Level
The beauty of chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles is how customizable it is. With just a few smart add-ins, you can enhance the texture, nutrition, and color of your dish—turning a simple stir fry into a true kitchen masterpiece.
Let’s talk veggies, crunch, protein boosters, and all the extras that make this meal pop.
Best Add-Ins for Flavor and Texture
- Cashews or Peanuts: Add satisfying crunch and protein.
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or orange for sweet, vibrant color.
- Snow Peas or Sugar Snap Peas: For a crisp bite and subtle sweetness.
- Mushrooms: Shiitake or cremini add an earthy depth.
- Shredded Carrots: Add color and a touch of natural sweetness.
These extras cook quickly and fit seamlessly into your stir fry routine. Just toss them in during the veggie sauté stage, and you’re good to go.
Sides That Pair Perfectly
While chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles is already a complete dish, pairing it with a flavorful side can elevate your dinner even more.
Here are some tasty ideas:
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy contrast to the warm noodles.
- Egg Rolls or Dumplings: Easy to bake or air-fry for added texture.
- Edamame: Steamed and salted for a healthy protein side.
- Cucumber Salad: A chilled, vinegary balance to your hot stir fry.
Want a noodle twist? Swap in rasa malaysia garlic noodles as a flavorful base instead of plain noodles. The garlicky richness blends beautifully with the chicken and broccoli elements.
For a more authentic spin, try the savory twist of this Chinese-style chicken and broccoli stir fry version packed with traditional flavor.
Final Thoughts – Your New Favorite Noodle Stir Fry
If you’ve been looking for a recipe that’s fast, flexible, and packed with flavor, chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles is it. It’s not only simple to prepare, but it’s also endlessly customizable—whether you’re after bold sauces, gluten-free swaps, or veggie-packed variations.
With the perfect balance of savory chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and slurp-worthy noodles, this dish satisfies every time. And once you master it, you’ll never feel the need to call for takeout again.
Feel free to experiment with different proteins, noodles, or stir fry sauces until you find your family’s favorite combination. The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is—it’s all about making it your own.
You’ll love what we’re sharing on Pinterest—follow Easy Protein Kitchen and connect with fellow foodies every day.
Popular Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen broccoli for stir fry?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles, especially when you’re short on time. Just be sure to thaw it slightly or steam it briefly before stir frying to prevent sogginess. Keep the pan hot so the broccoli still gets that tender-crisp texture you’d expect from fresh.
What kind of noodles work best?
The beauty of this dish is that it’s versatile. Some top options for chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles include:
Ramen noodles for that classic takeout feel
Udon noodles for a thick, chewy bite
Rice noodles for a gluten-free option
Egg noodles if you’re after rich flavor
Whichever you choose, just make sure they’re cooked slightly underdone if you’re stir frying them in the pan—this helps prevent mushiness.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, and it holds up beautifully! Chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles makes an excellent meal prep recipe. Simply divide it into airtight containers after cooling. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats perfectly in the microwave or skillet. For best texture, store the noodles and stir fry sauce separately and mix just before serving.
How do I make the sauce less salty?
Try diluting the sauce with a splash of water, low-sodium broth, or unsalted coconut milk. You can also reduce or skip salty add-ins like oyster sauce or soy sauce, and opt for coconut aminos instead. Making your own sauce gives you total control over the sodium levels.
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Definitely. This stir fry is flexible. Swap out chicken for shrimp, tofu, sliced beef, or even tempeh. The stir fry method and sauce work beautifully across most proteins, so feel free to experiment based on what’s in your fridge.
Is it okay to use store-bought sauces?
Yes! In fact, Kikkoman stir fry sauce is a popular go-to for busy weeknights. Just check the label for sodium content and potential allergens. You can always upgrade it with fresh garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for a custom twist that tastes homemade.