Stir-fries are a quick and healthy way to get a delicious meal on the table, and this Easy Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry is no exception. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, this dish is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. The savory sauce brings everything together, making it a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights or a delightful lunch. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
Ingredients for Easy Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
How to Make Easy Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry
Preparing the Ingredients:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chop the Vegetables: Cut the broccoli into florets, slice the red bell pepper, and thinly slice the carrot. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables:
- Add More Oil: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the broccoli florets, sliced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Making the Sauce:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, and oyster sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce mixture, along with the sesame oil. Whisk until well combined.
Bringing It All Together:
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Chicken: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, making them a healthy choice for stir-fries. They cook quickly and absorb flavors well, ensuring that each bite is tender and flavorful.
Broccoli: Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. It adds a wonderful crunch and vibrant color to the stir-fry.
Red Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and beta-carotene. They provide a sweet, slightly fruity flavor that complements the savory elements of the dish.
Carrot: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and a lovely orange hue to the stir-fry. They are also a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as fiber.
Garlic and Ginger: Garlic and ginger are essential aromatics in many Asian-inspired dishes. Garlic adds depth and a slight pungency, while ginger brings a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: Soy sauce provides the salty, umami base for the sauce, while oyster sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet, and savory dimension. Together, they create a well-rounded, flavorful sauce.
Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is used to add a distinct nutty flavor to the sauce. A little goes a long way, so it is used sparingly to enhance the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent for the sauce. When mixed with water, it forms a slurry that helps create a glossy, smooth sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables.
Creating this Easy Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal. With its combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and savory sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones and savor the simple yet satisfying flavors!
