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This stir-fry with chicken and broccoli is a colorful dinner that mixes juicy chicken strips with crunchy broccoli, all glazed in a sticky honey and soy sauce. It’s a tasty combo of salty and sweet that comes together fast for a wholesome meal whenever you want something satisfying and tasty.
I whipped this up the first time when I needed a quick dinner that felt a bit fancy and it soon became a household favorite because it always pleases everyone’s tastes.
Needed Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets, four cups: pick firm dark-green bunches with no yellow spots; they add great crunch and color
- Trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts, three: slice thin for even cooking and lean protein
- Minced garlic cloves, four: fresh is best for full flavor and a nice aroma
- Grated fresh ginger, about an inch piece: skip woody parts for smooth, warming flavor
- Two tablespoons honey: gives natural sweetness that caramelizes up nice
- One-quarter cup low-sodium soy sauce: adds rich umami without too much salt
- Neutral cooking oil, two tablespoons (like canola or veggie): for a good sear on the chicken
- One tablespoon sesame oil: brings nutty aroma that’s key for authentic taste
Step-by-Step Cooking
- Mix The Sauce:
- Put soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl and stir together good. This sauce flavors the chicken with layers of salty and sweet.
- Get Ingredients Ready:
- Rinse broccoli well and chop it into easy bite-size pieces so it cooks quickly. Cut chicken breasts into thin strips for fast, even cooking.
- Marinate Chicken:
- Coat chicken strips well with the marinade and let them soak it up for at least 15 minutes to get tender and flavorful bites.
- Cook Chicken:
- Heat oil in a big pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and done, about five to seven minutes. This heat level helps get a nice crust while keeping the meat juicy.
- Add Broccoli:
- Throw in the broccoli and stir-fry until it turns bright green and stays a bit crisp, around three to four minutes. This quick step keeps it fresh and firm.
- Final Touches:
- Mix everything well, taste, and tweak seasoning if needed. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a cozy meal.
I love sharing this after a long day since it feels cozy and a little celebration on your plate. The sesame oil gives it a special smell that reminds me why I dig quick Asian-style meals.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. It heats up well in a pan on medium heat which keeps broccoli crunchy. Be careful with microwaving too long or the broccoli gets soggy.
Ingredient Swaps
You can try tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a veggie-friendly version that soaks up the same tasty sauce. Switch broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers to mix it up with fresh seasonal flavors and colors. A splash of rice vinegar adds a nice tang if you like bright flavors.
Great Side Ideas
Serve with jasmine rice or soft egg noodles to catch all the sauce. A simple cucumber salad with light vinegar dressing makes a nice crunchy side. For drinks, cold green tea or a dry Riesling works really well.
This chicken and broccoli stir-fry comes together fast with tons of flavor and is easy to tweak to your liking. Perfect for busy nights!
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How can I keep broccoli crunchy while cooking?
Cook broccoli just 3 to 4 minutes until it’s bright and still a little firm. Don’t overcook or steam it too long.
- → Can I swap chicken breasts for other proteins?
Yeah, chicken thighs or firm tofu work well too. They cook about the same and give a different texture.
- → Why do I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Marinating lets the chicken soak up honey, soy, garlic, and ginger. It makes the meat tastier and softer.
- → Which oils are best for cooking this dish?
Use neutral oils like canola or vegetable to cook. Add sesame oil at the end just for flavor, not heat.
- → Is there a way to make this spicy?
Definitely. Toss in some red pepper flakes or a bit of chili sauce to add a nice spicy lift to the sweet and savory mix.