Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry

Name: Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry as it perfectly combines nutritious ingredients with vibrant flavors. This dish has become a family favorite, and I adore how quick and easy it is to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a wholesome meal option. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a delicious dinner that everyone enjoys, making it an ideal weeknight meal packed with protein and veggies.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:45:36.890Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry, I was blown away by how simple it is to create a delicious, health-conscious dish. I was looking for something quick to make for dinner that was still packed with nutrients, and this recipe fit perfectly. The fresh broccoli retains its crunch while being infused with a tasty sauce, making it irresistibly good!

I learned that marinating the chicken briefly in a mix of soy sauce and garlic enhances its flavor, while also ensuring it stays tender during cooking. This way, I can prepare a wholesome meal without sacrificing taste, which was my primary goal. Plus, it's all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory chicken paired with vibrant broccoli for a nutritious twist
Quick and easy preparation makes weeknight dinners a breeze
A colorful and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

The key to tender chicken in stir fry is keeping the heat at a medium-high level, allowing for quick cooking without drying it out. I recommend cutting the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking. To test if the chicken is done, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooked chicken will become tough, so be vigilant and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink in the center.

If you want to up the flavor of your stir-fried chicken, you can also consider marinating it longer, up to 30 minutes if time allows. This will enhance the absorption of the garlic and ginger flavors, leading to a more aromatic dish. Additionally, use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned wok to prevent sticking and allow for those essential golden edges for a nice texture.

Broccoli: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Broccoli is not only vibrant but is also rich in vitamins K and C, making it an essential component in this stir fry. To maintain its bright green color and crunch, stir fry the broccoli until just tender, about 4-5 minutes. It should be vibrant and not overcooked; ideally, it should retain a slight crunch when bitten into. If you find your broccoli losing its structure, reduce the cooking time slightly.

If you're looking for variety or want to boost the nutrition even further, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch. These can be added simultaneously with the broccoli for a delicious medley that still cooks quickly during the stir-fry process.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the chicken and broccoli stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken tender and to revitalize the texture of the broccoli. Avoid microwaving for long durations, as this can lead to soggy vegetables.

For those who want to prepare it in advance, you can chop the chicken and vegetables a day before and store them in the fridge. Just remember to marinate the chicken no longer than 30 minutes before cooking to prevent an overly mushy texture. These prepped ingredients will transform your weeknight dinner into an easy, stress-free meal.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken slices with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Marinate for at least 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Cook the Chicken

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.

Add Broccoli

Once the chicken is cooked, add the broccoli florets to the pan. Stir fry for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become bright green and crisp.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the honey and the cornstarch mixture to the pan, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding bell peppers or snap peas. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a variation.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you find yourself without chicken, tofu can serve as a fantastic substitute, offering a plant-based protein that soaks up the flavors of the marinade just as well. For gluten-free options, swap low-sodium soy sauce with tamari without sacrificing umami. These adaptations keep the dish vibrant while catering to various dietary preferences.

Additionally, if you’re not a fan of honey, agave nectar or maple syrup can be used for sweetness without losing the essence of the dish. These alternatives will blend seamlessly with the savory elements of your stir fry, so feel free to experiment based on what you have in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

This healthy stir fry is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a complete meal, I love serving it over fluffy jasmine rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or whole grain quinoa; both provide substance without weighing down the dish.

For an added surprise at the table, consider serving with lime wedges to drizzle over the stir fry for a fresh and zesty finish. Pairing with a simple side salad or pickled vegetables can elevate your meal, enhancing the wholesome experience with additional textures and flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess water in the stir fry.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari sauce as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles.

→ Can I prep ingredients in advance?

Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time for a faster cooking process.