15-Minute Chicken & Broccoli Stir-fry
A lightning-fast, flavor-packed chicken and broccoli stir-fry that comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
For 2 servings
**Prep Chicken & Sauce:** Slice chicken breast thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), and cornstarch dissolved in water or broth. Set aside. Mince garlic and grate ginger.
**Heat Wok:** Heat a large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke lightly. Add 1 tbsp peanut oil and swirl to coat the surface.
**Cook Chicken:** Add sliced chicken to the hot wok in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, tossing occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the wok and set aside.
**Sauté Aromatics & Broccoli:** Add a splash more peanut oil (about 1/2 tsp) if needed. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
**Combine & Finish:** Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the broccoli. Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk again and pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
**Serve:** Remove from heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**High Heat is Key:** Don't overcrowd the wok. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat, which is crucial for searing and preventing steaming.
- 2**Prep Ahead:** Have all ingredients chopped, measured, and the sauce mixed before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves very quickly!
- 3**Don't Overcook Broccoli:** Aim for tender-crisp broccoli. It should still have a slight bite for best texture and nutrient retention.
- 4**Customizable Heat:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicier kick.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace chicken with shrimp, thinly sliced beef, or firm tofu for different protein options. Adjust cooking times accordingly (shrimp cooks faster, beef may need higher heat).
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Add other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added color and nutrients.
Gluten Free OptionGluten-Free Option
Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Chicken breast provides high-quality lean protein essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Vitamins & Fiber
Broccoli is packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and dietary fiber, supporting immunity, bone health, and digestive regularity.
Antioxidant Boost
Ginger and garlic offer powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that contribute to overall well-being and may help protect against chronic diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it slightly and pat it very dry with paper towels before adding to the wok to prevent excess water from steaming the dish instead of stir-frying.
