If you’ve been searching for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal, this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It combines tender chicken slices with vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a savory sauce that balances soy, ginger, and a hint of sesame oil perfectly. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that is bursting with flavor, texture, and color, effortlessly bringing a classic Chinese takeout favorite right into your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe keeps things simple but brilliant, using straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to deliver maximum flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s the crisp broccoli, juicy chicken, or that irresistible sauce that ties it all together.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 lb): Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and a tender bite.
- Fresh broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant green color.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Perfect for stir-frying without overpowering the flavors.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Gives a fragrant, savory backbone to the dish.
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Brings a warm, zesty brightness that lifts the sauce.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/4 cup): Provides the essential umami and salty depth.
- Oyster sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and complexity for that classic Chinese flavor.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Cuts through the richness with a gentle tang.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Used to thicken the sauce into a luscious glaze.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Creates a flavorful base that keeps the sauce light.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Offers a toasty aroma that finishes the dish beautifully.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds just a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To season and bring it all together perfectly.
- Cooked white rice or noodles: The ideal vehicle for soaking up every delicious drop of sauce.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional): For garnish that adds texture and a fresh pop of color.
How to Make Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. Toss in the thinly sliced chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This simple marinade not only seasons the chicken but helps keep it tender during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, the other tablespoon of cornstarch, chicken broth, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This sauce will bring all the ingredients together with balanced salty, sweet, and tangy notes.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and start to soften. Then remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely browned exterior.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger
Push the chicken to one side of the skillet, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant—this step infuses the dish with those irresistible aromatic flavors.
Step 6: Combine and Sauce
Return the broccoli to the skillet, mixing everything together. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats every bite beautifully.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately over a bed of steamed white rice or noodles. This final step is where all the flavors meld perfectly, creating a comforting, colorful meal that’s ready in no time.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe even further, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top just before serving. These garnishes add a satisfying crunch and fresh, vibrant flavor that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like steamed jasmine rice or egg fried rice to soak up that luscious sauce. For a lighter touch, try serving with a crisp cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables to balance the savory richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress friends or family by serving this stir fry in individual hot stone bowls or alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa for a twist on tradition. You can also shape the stir fry into lettuce wraps for a fresh, interactive dining experience that’s both fun and flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more, making your next meal just as delicious as fresh.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for stir fry, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without overcooking the chicken or broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli is classic, feel free to add or substitute veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color, crunch, and nutrition.
What type of chicken is best for this stir fry?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work really well because they cook quickly and stay tender when sliced thinly. Thighs can be used too if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful option.
Is oyster sauce necessary?
Oyster sauce adds depth and that unmistakable savory-sweet umami flavor—but if you don’t have it on hand, a mix of hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce can work as substitutes, keeping in mind it will slightly change the taste.
How spicy is this dish?
The optional red pepper flakes add only a gentle heat that can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference, making it versatile for all palates.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and double-check the oyster sauce label as some brands contain gluten. This way, you still get that authentic flavor without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening. Quick, flavorful, and made with everyday ingredients, it’s a reliable go-to that pleases everyone around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and delicious home-cooked Chinese food can be!
Print
Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A quick and flavorful Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry that combines tender chicken breast and fresh broccoli florets in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Pinch of black pepper
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (divided: 1 tbsp for marinade, remaining for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (divided: 1 tsp for marinade, remaining for sauce)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Other
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the mixture and marinate for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, remaining cornstarch, chicken broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the fresh broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the flavors meld without burning the garlic.
- Combine Broccoli and Chicken: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and mix thoroughly with the chicken and aromatics, preparing to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Add the Sauce and Finish Cooking: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes as the sauce thickens and evenly coats all ingredients.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the chicken and broccoli stir fry hot over freshly cooked white rice or noodles. Optionally garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference for spiciness.
- For gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.
- Use fresh broccoli for best results; frozen broccoli tends to release more water when cooked.
- The dish is best served immediately to maintain the crispness of the broccoli.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but broccoli may lose its texture.
