Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Stir-fry recipes are one of my go-to options, especially when I have leftover rice. They’re quick to make, healthy, and perfect for a family meal. I particularly love chicken and broccoli stir-fry because it’s a great way to sneak in some broccoli, and it’s a hit with kids! Plus, you can customize this recipe based on your preferences—add more veggies, spice it up with extra chilies, or throw in some bell peppers and mushrooms for variety. It’s simple, nutritious, and most importantly, delicious!
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- About 1/2 cup of water (may not need the full amount)
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed (or shredded/grilled leftover chicken)
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fried rice (optional, for serving)
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 4-5 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (plus 1 teaspoon for marinating)
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic and ginger paste (or minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken, scallions, and sugar. Add sesame oil, ginger and garlic paste, dry sherry, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with water and set aside.
- Heat a non-stick skillet on high and add the vegetable oil. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to avoid it becoming mushy. Season with salt and pepper, add 1.5 tablespoons of water, and stir-fry briefly. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- Clean the skillet and heat it again with vegetable oil. Add the chicken and red chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick) and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the chicken turns color.
- Add hoisin sauce, the cooked broccoli, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir everything together, adding more water if the sauce is too thick. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds (or substitute with parsley and green onions). You can also serve it alongside fried rice for a complete meal. If you have kids, consider making onion rings or chicken rolls as an additional treat!
This chicken and broccoli stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite. Quick, easy, and customizable to your tastes! Enjoy!