There's nothing quite like a sizzling pan of chicken and broccoli stir fry filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. This healthy and flavorful dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights.

I discovered this recipe while trying to find a way to enjoy takeout flavors without the excess sodium and unhealthy oils. With a few simple tweaks, I created a dish that's just as satisfying but packed with lean protein, crisp-tender vegetables, and a perfectly balanced homemade sauce.

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Get ready to enjoy a meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious. This stir fry is a staple in my weekly meal rotation, and for good reason.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, you can have dinner on the table in no time. Perfect for those evenings when you need a wholesome meal fast.

It's also packed with nutrients. Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein, while broccoli delivers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. This dish keeps you full and energized without weighing you down.

Another great feature is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. From different vegetables to alternative protein sources, this recipe is endlessly adaptable.

Best of all, it's made with a light yet flavorful sauce. Unlike traditional takeout, this version uses low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and fresh aromatics for a perfectly balanced taste without excess salt or sugar.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this stir fry lies in the simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create bold, delicious flavors.

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is my go-to protein for this dish. It’s lean, cooks quickly, and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

Fresh broccoli florets add a satisfying crunch and loads of nutrients. Be sure to cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen florets work well too—just thaw and drain them before using.

Garlic and fresh ginger are the backbone of the sauce, providing warmth and depth of flavor. Using fresh ingredients makes a huge difference, but in a pinch, pre-minced garlic and ground ginger can work.

Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming it with salt. If you're avoiding soy, coconut aminos make an excellent alternative, offering a slightly sweeter taste.

Cornstarch is the secret to achieving that velvety, restaurant-style sauce. It helps thicken the sauce so that it clings perfectly to the chicken and broccoli, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

How To Make This Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Creating this stir fry is a breeze, and the key to success is prepping all your ingredients before you start cooking.

Begin by slicing the chicken into thin strips and tossing them with a bit of cornstarch. This step helps lock in moisture and gives the chicken a tender texture. While the chicken sits, cut the broccoli into small florets and mince the garlic and ginger.

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and let it get nice and hot before adding the chicken. Cook in a single layer, allowing it to sear for about two minutes before flipping. Continue cooking until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, then transfer it to a plate.

In the same pan, add another drizzle of oil and toss in the broccoli. Stir fry for a couple of minutes until it turns bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. If you prefer softer broccoli, add a tablespoon of water and cover the pan for a minute to steam.

Next, add the garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to release their aroma without burning. Pour in the sauce mixture, which includes low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and a touch of water. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the cooked chicken back to the pan.

Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce coats each piece of chicken and broccoli. Let it cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this stir fry stores beautifully for meal prep. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in a sealed container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the sauce’s consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This stir fry is incredibly flexible, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs.

For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before pan-frying it to a golden brown.

Want more variety in your veggies? Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch. Mushrooms also add a delicious umami depth to the dish.

For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Be sure to check labels to confirm all ingredients are gluten-free.

If you're looking to lower the carbs, serve this stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or noodles. Zucchini noodles also make a great alternative for a lighter meal.

Experimenting with different flavors can be fun! Try adding a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a hint of brightness.

This healthy chicken and broccoli stir fry is a must-try recipe that proves nutritious meals don’t have to be bland. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in so many households!