Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Craving a quick and healthy meal? This Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a fantastic simple dinner recipe that delivers big flavor in minimal time. You’ll love how easy it is to create a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets work best, but frozen broccoli can be used; just thaw it first.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for the best flavor.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a wonderful zing. Ground ginger can be substituted in a pinch (use 1/2 teaspoon).
Ingredients
Main:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Optional:
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 (without rice)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, small bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Wash and chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince your garlic and grate your fresh ginger.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, cornstarch, water, and honey or maple syrup. Set this sauce aside. This simple dinner recipe sauce is key to the dish.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Aromatics
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
5. Combine and Thicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Give your prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything.
6. Serve Your Simple Dinner Recipe
Remove from heat and serve your delicious Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry immediately. It’s excellent over cooked rice or noodles, making it a perfect simple dinner recipe. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Variation Ideas
- Add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end for brightness.
- Top with chopped cashews for extra crunch.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the texture of the chicken and broccoli.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh ginger?
A: You can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, but fresh ginger offers a more vibrant flavor.
Q: How do I prevent my broccoli from getting soggy?
A: Don’t overcrowd the pan and cook it over medium-high heat. You want it tender-crisp, not soft.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, this recipe is not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
Q: Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Chop your chicken and broccoli, and mix the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge.
Q: Is this a good simple dinner recipe for meal prep?
A: Yes, this stir-fry reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping healthy lunches or dinners.
