Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe (Better Than Takeout!)

Chicken and broccoli stir fry wasn’t always my go-to dinner. A few years ago, I stood in front of the fridge after a long workday, exhausted, starving, and debating whether to order takeout again. That night, with a few random ingredients—chicken breast, broccoli, garlic, and soy sauce—I gave it a try myself.

It took just 20 minutes. The chicken turned golden, the broccoli stayed crisp, and the sauce clung to everything just right. It wasn’t just fast. It was better than takeout.

Since then, this healthy stir fry has become a weeknight lifesaver. It’s budget-friendly, quick to prep, endlessly adaptable, and way healthier than anything you’d grab in a to-go box. Whether you’re chasing quick dinner ideas, prepping meals for the week, or feeding picky eaters, this recipe hits the spot—every time.

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

A great chicken and broccoli stir fry recipe starts with the right ingredients. This combination brings bold flavor, tender meat, and perfectly crisp broccoli in under 30 minutes.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Optional add-ins: carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, cashews, or chili flakes for heat.

These simple ingredients are pantry staples for most households, making this chicken and broccoli stir fry one of the easiest meals to whip up when time is tight.

Step-by-Step Method to Perfect the Stir Fry

1. Prep Your Chicken

Slice the chicken thinly across the grain—this keeps it tender and helps it cook fast. Toss it in a bowl with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prep the rest.

2. Blanch or Steam the Broccoli

To keep your broccoli bright green and slightly crisp, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes or steam it. Immediately plunge into cold water to stop cooking.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed. Let it sear for 1–2 minutes before stirring. Cook until lightly golden and fully done (about 5–6 minutes total). Remove and set aside.

4. Add Garlic and Ginger

In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn.

5. Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the pan. Add the steamed broccoli and pour in a sauce made from soy, oyster sauce (if using), and a splash of water. Toss everything to coat evenly. Let it bubble for a minute until thickened and glossy.

And that’s it—you’ve just made a fast, flavorful chicken and broccoli stir fry that rivals anything you’d get from a restaurant.

Variations of the Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Looking to switch things up? Here are some popular ways to transform this dish:

Best Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Variants:

• Chinese chicken and broccoli stir fry: Add oyster sauce and a pinch of sugar for authentic takeout flavor.
• Spicy garlic chicken stir fry: Toss in chili paste or sriracha for extra heat.
• Chicken breast and broccoli stir fry: Light and lean—skip heavy sauces for a healthier spin.
• Sweet soy version: Use sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) for Indonesian flair.

Each variation keeps the heart of the dish intact while offering different flavor twists, so you can keep things interesting without overcomplicating dinner.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Brooklyn

This easy chicken and broccoli stir fry is a quick, healthy dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with flavor, it's better than takeout and perfect for weeknights!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cornstarch (or arrowroot for paleo)
• 2 tbsp water

Instructions

 

• In a bowl, mix sliced chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
• Steam or blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp. Set aside.
• Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high. Stir fry the chicken until golden, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
• Add garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Return chicken to the pan, add broccoli, and pour in water mixed with oyster sauce and remaining soy sauce. Toss everything together.
• Stir fry until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly. Serve hot over rice or cauliflower rice.

Notes

• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free or Whole30 version.
• Add red bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to boost nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 18gFiber: 3g

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Check out this chicken and broccoli stir fry with noodles for a delicious twist on the classic.

Best Sauces for Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

A killer chicken and broccoli stir fry hinges on one thing—the sauce. Whether you like it savory, sweet, spicy, or sticky, the right stir fry sauce brings everything together.

Here’s how to master the flavor game with the best sauces for your stir fry.

Classic Stir Fry Sauce Combinations

These are your base sauces—simple to make, endlessly adjustable, and absolutely delicious.

1. Soy-Garlic Stir Fry Sauce

This is the OG. Quick and perfect for beginners.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp water

How to use: Mix and pour over the chicken and broccoli at the end. Cook until glossy.

2. Garlic and Oyster Sauce

A staple in most Chinese takeout versions.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil

This combination creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that clings beautifully to meat and veggies.

3. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry with Teriyaki Sauce

For that sweet-savory vibe everyone loves.

Quick Teriyaki Recipe:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Dash of sesame oil

Great for kids and picky eaters, this version brings comfort food vibes without the takeout bill.

Healthy and Alternative Sauce Ideas

Sometimes you want bold flavor and a lighter profile. These sauces are just as tasty, with fewer ingredients or dietary tweaks.

1. Peanut Sauce (Thai-Inspired)

Perfect for switching up flavor profiles.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp honey
• Water to thin

Creamy, nutty, and surprisingly refreshing.

2. Stir Fry Without Soy Sauce

If you’re avoiding soy or want gluten-free options, try this:

Coconut Aminos Stir Fry Sauce:

• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp tapioca starch or arrowroot
• Pinch of garlic powder

Coconut aminos are sweeter and less salty than soy sauce, perfect for paleo or Whole30 diets.

3. Black Bean Sauce for Bold Flavors

Love deep, fermented flavors?

Try adding 1 tablespoon of Chinese fermented black bean sauce into your garlic-ginger stir fry base for a more authentic and earthy taste.

Pro Tips for Stir Fry Sauce Success

• Mix sauces before cooking: Always prep your sauce in a bowl before you start stir-frying.
• Thicken carefully: Add cornstarch only if you want a glossy finish. Avoid over-thickening—it should lightly coat, not clump.
• Taste before serving: Every soy or oyster sauce brand has a different salt level—taste and adjust as needed.

Learn how to make the perfect sauce for chicken and broccoli stir fry with this easy guide.

Healthy Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Variations

Craving your favorite chicken and broccoli stir fry but want to keep it light? Whether you’re following keto, paleo, or just watching your carbs, there’s a version of this dish for every diet. The best part? You never have to sacrifice flavor to eat well.

Low-Carb and Keto Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

If you’re eating low-carb, the key is the sauce and sides. The chicken and broccoli are naturally low in carbs—it’s the sugar-heavy sauces and white rice that add extras.

Keto-Friendly Adjustments:

• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce (lower carb & soy-free)
• Skip cornstarch: Thicken sauce with ¼ tsp xanthan gum or just reduce the sauce longer
• Serve with cauliflower rice or eat it as-is

This keto chicken and broccoli stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights and stays under 8g net carbs per serving.

Gluten-Free and Paleo Options

Sensitive to gluten or on a paleo meal plan? You’re covered.

Paleo Swaps:

• Coconut aminos for soy sauce
• Arrowroot or tapioca starch instead of cornstarch
• Avocado oil or ghee for cooking
• Natural sweeteners like honey (if needed)

These swaps make it super easy to build a healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry without artificial ingredients.

Boosting Nutrition Without Sacrificing Flavor

This dish is already packed with lean protein and fiber, but you can take it up a notch by adding more colorful veggies and nutrient-dense toppings.

Try These Add-Ins:

• Bell peppers – high in vitamin C and add color
• Mushrooms – meaty texture and rich in antioxidants
• Spinach or kale – toss in at the end to wilt gently
• Toasted cashews or sesame seeds – add crunch and healthy fats

These adjustments don’t just make your meal prettier—they make it more filling and satisfying without piling on calories.

Is Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Actually Healthy?

Absolutely—especially when you control the sauce.

Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown (per serving with a light soy sauce base):

Just avoid heavy, sugary sauces or deep-frying methods. This stir fry is a natural fit for healthy eating goals, and it’s easy to meal prep ahead.

Explore this healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry recipe that’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of flavor.

Quick Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry in Under 30 Minutes

Making a great chicken and broccoli stir fry doesn’t need to take forever—or feel like a chore. With a few smart tricks, you can pull together a flavorful, healthy meal in 30 minutes or less. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, these tips will save you time and stress.

Smart Prep: Save Time Before You Even Cook

1. Pre-Cut Ingredients

Chop your chicken and broccoli in advance. Store them in the fridge in airtight containers. You can even marinate the chicken the night before.

Pro tip: Freeze individual meal kits—chicken, broccoli, sauce mix—so you can grab, defrost, and go.

2. Use Pre-Washed Broccoli

Grab bagged, pre-cut broccoli florets from the grocery store. They’re ready to steam or stir fry, no prep needed. It shaves 5–7 minutes off your cook time instantly.

Fast Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor

1. Use High Heat and the Right Pan

A large, nonstick skillet or wok is best. High heat helps the chicken sear quickly and gives the broccoli that perfect stir-fry crunch.

Important: Don’t crowd the pan. Cook chicken in two batches if needed so it browns, not steams.

2. Add Ingredients in Stages

Stir fry your chicken first, then remove it. Cook garlic and ginger next, followed by steamed broccoli. Add the chicken back at the end with sauce. This keeps everything perfectly cooked—not soggy or dry.

Quick Ingredient Swaps to Speed Things Up

Short on ingredients or in a serious hurry? These substitutions will keep dinner on track:

Meal Prep Hack: Make It Once, Eat All Week

This stir fry stores beautifully and reheats like a dream. Double the batch and enjoy it:

• Over rice on day one
• In a wrap for lunch
• With noodles for a twist
• As a bento box-style meal prep

Just store each portion in individual glass containers and reheat with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Don’t miss this authentic Chinese chicken and broccoli stir fry made just like your favorite takeout.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Stir Fry — Done in a Snap!

When you’re craving a fast, healthy, and satisfying meal, chicken and broccoli stir fry checks every box. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and way better than takeout. With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that’s loaded with flavor and fits any diet.

From classic Chinese-style sauces to keto-friendly swaps and quick prep tips, this recipe fits into every busy lifestyle—and every skillet. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding the family, or planning a week of healthy meals, it’s a winner on every level.

Check out these delicious chicken stir fry variations packed with flavor and ready in no time.

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FAQs About Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry