If you have a busy schedule but still crave a wholesome and flavorful meal, this Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe has got you covered. It combines tender, juicy chicken strips with vibrant broccoli florets, all brought together by a perfectly balanced garlic and honey-infused sauce. This dish is not only incredibly easy and fast to prepare, but it also packs a punch in both taste and nutrition, making it a weeknight favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver deliciousness in every bite. Each element plays a crucial role from adding juiciness, crunch, to bright flavors and that irresistible garlicky aroma.
- Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures tender and lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- Fresh garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory kick that elevates the overall taste.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds vibrant color plus a satisfying crunch and nutrients.
- Olive oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps sauté ingredients evenly while adding subtle richness.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides savory umami and saltiness without overpowering the dish.
- Honey: Balances the soy sauce with a natural sweetness, creating a harmonious glaze.
- Sesame oil: Just a teaspoon introduces a warm, nutty aroma that rounds out the dish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors of chicken and veggies.
How to Make Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping your broccoli into bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and stay crisp. Mince fresh garlic to unlock its aromatic flavor and slice the chicken into thin strips, which ensures quick cooking and perfect tenderness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season lightly with salt and pepper. Allow them to cook undisturbed until they turn a beautiful golden brown, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. This step seals in the chicken’s juiciness, so don’t rush it.
Step 3: Stir-Fry Garlic and Broccoli
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets. Stir-fry the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender yet retains a satisfying crunch. The garlic will release its inviting aroma that perfectly complements the broccoli’s natural flavor.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. This simple sauce brings a balanced blend of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors that will coat the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet with the garlic and broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about one minute so all the flavors meld perfectly without overcooking your ingredients.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dish looks glossy and fragrant, plate your Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. Drizzle any extra sauce from the pan on top for extra flavor and serve immediately while warm and aromatic.
How to Serve Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your stir-fry impressively. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for crunch and visual appeal or add chopped scallions to introduce a mild oniony fresh note. These simple additions enhance the vibrancy and texture of the dish.
Side Dishes
This quick garlic chicken and broccoli stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa, both of which soak up the flavorful sauce delightfully. For a low-carb alternative, serve alongside cauliflower rice or simply enjoy it on its own as a fulfilling meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more casual family dinner, serve this stir-fry in big bowls topped with your favorite crunchy nuts like cashews or sliced almonds. If you want a fun twist, spoon it onto lettuce leaves for easy-to-eat wraps that bring fresh crispness to each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce and stir-fry together to maintain flavor, but for best texture, consume within the first two days.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare meals ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the broccoli and chicken. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even warming without drying the dish out.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy all make excellent substitutes or additions to this stir-fry. Just be mindful of cooking times so each vegetable remains crisp-tender.
Is this Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for a tamari or gluten-free soy sauce variant. Everything else stays the same, and you won’t sacrifice any flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and juicy, though you might need a minute or two extra to cook through.
How spicy is this recipe?
This stir-fry is not spicy by default, making it perfect for all palates. If you love heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce when stir-frying the garlic and broccoli.
What’s the best way to cut chicken for this recipe?
Slicing the chicken into thin, uniform strips helps them cook evenly and quickly, ensuring tender bites that blend seamlessly with the broccoli in every forkful.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that comes together effortlessly yet leaves everyone asking for seconds. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without fuss. Once you experience the tender chicken paired with crisp broccoli and that luscious sauce, it might just become your go-to recipe too!
Print
Quick Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A quick and healthy Chicken and Broccoli stir-fry featuring tender chicken strips and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory honey soy sauce, perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
Sauce and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic cloves, and slice the chicken breasts into thin strips to ensure even and quick cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp, preserving its vibrant color and texture.
- Make Sauce and Combine: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the sautéed chicken and broccoli in the skillet.
- Simmer to Meld Flavors: Return the skillet to low heat and cook the mixture for one more minute to let the flavors blend and the sauce slightly thicken.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and broccoli stir-fry, and drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the dish for extra flavor.
Notes
- For added texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds before serving.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier dish.
- Adjust the honey quantity for sweetness preference.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content.
