Name: Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 Tablespoon cornstarch; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper; ¾ cup onion, finely chopped; 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon); 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger, packed; 12 oz broccoli florets (about 3 cups); 1 Tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

I absolutely love this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe because it brings together tender, golden chicken and crisp broccoli in a glossy, flavorful soy glaze that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of ginger and garlic. It’s one of those dishes I crave when I want a satisfying, healthy meal that’s ready in no time but tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen. Every bite delivers that comforting umami punch with a fresh crunch that just makes my taste buds dance.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

What really captivates me about this stir-fry is its incredible flavor profile. The soy glaze blends sweet maple syrup with savory soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil, creating a deep, rich coating that clings to the chicken and broccoli perfectly. The fresh ginger and garlic add just the right amount of zing and warmth without overpowering the dish. It’s like the perfect harmony of bold, comforting Asian-inspired flavors that feels both hearty and light at the same time.

Another reason I adore this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is how easy and quick it is to prepare. From start to finish, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I love that I can pop the ingredients into my pantry and fridge without needing anything too fancy, and the step-by-step process is straightforward even if you’re new to stir-frying. This recipe shines whether I’m cooking for my family’s casual dinner or want a crowd-pleaser for get-togethers – it’s always a hit and so satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a cooked dish showing two main layers: the bottom layer is light orange, smooth cooked food with a few black pepper sprinkles, and the top layer is bright green broccoli florets scattered all over the surface, creating a fresh contrast with the orange base. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the texture and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All you need to make this recipe are simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role, from the tender chicken to the crunchy broccoli, to the perfectly balanced soy glaze that brings everything together in a beautiful, savory sauce.

Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides a rich, salty base for the glaze without overpowering the dish.
Low-sodium vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce while keeping it light.
Pure maple syrup: Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Sesame oil: Gives a nutty aroma and flavor that elevates the stir-fry.
Cornstarch: Thicken the glaze to coat the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
Kosher salt: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor without oversalting.
Coarse black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the stir-fry.
Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and texture to the dish.
Garlic cloves: Fresh and finely chopped for an aromatic punch.
Ginger: Finely chopped to give a warm, slightly spicy undertone.
Broccoli florets: The star veggie, providing crunch, color, and nutrition.
Sesame seeds (optional): For a visually appealing garnish and extra crunch.

Directions

Step 1: First, create the soy glaze by combining the vegetable broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, and pure maple syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave for about 1 minute until it’s hot, then whisk in the cornstarch until smooth. Set this aside while you cook the chicken.

Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, drizzle in the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes so it gets that gorgeous golden brown crust on one side.

Step 3: Flip the chicken pieces and continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just cooked through and golden brown on the other side. Once ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you stir-fry the aromatics and broccoli.

Step 4: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until everything smells wonderfully fragrant and the onions become slightly translucent.

Step 5: Pour the warm soy glaze into the skillet with the aromatics and cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes. This thickened sauce is what gives the dish its amazing texture and flavor intensity.

Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the broccoli florets. Toss everything together, stir-frying for another 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp, and the chicken is nicely coated with the soy glaze.

Step 7: Serve your Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry piping hot over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if you like, for an elegant finishing touch. Enjoy every bite!

Servings and Timing

This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for a few days. The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, mostly for slicing chicken and chopping vegetables. Cooking takes about 20 minutes, making the total time from start to finish just around 30 minutes. There’s no resting or cooling time needed, so you can dive right in as soon as it’s done.

How to Serve This Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a dish with several bright orange chicken fillets spread across the frame, coated in a glossy sauce with small pieces of red chili on top. Around and under the chicken are vibrant green broccoli florets, some partially submerged in the dark sauce, creating a mix of smooth and rough textures. White sesame seeds are sprinkled evenly over the chicken and broccoli, adding small white dots over the colorful layers. The food is shown on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this stir-fry over a mound of steaming white rice or fluffy quinoa because these grains soak up the delicious soy glaze so well. If I’m feeling a bit healthier, brown rice or cauliflower rice make fantastic alternatives that add a nice dimension to the meal. For a lovely contrast, sometimes I add a side of pickled vegetables or a crisp Asian-style cucumber salad to bring a refreshing bite alongside the warm stir-fry.

Presentation-wise, sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the top gives a subtle crunch and a beautiful finish that makes the dish look irresistible. I also like to add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serving while hot is key because the glaze is at its most luscious, and the broccoli retains that perfect bite when freshly cooked.

For beverages, I recommend pairing this dish with a chilled jasmine tea, which complements the flavors without overpowering them. If you’re in the mood for wine, a light, crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Riesling works wonderfully. I’ve even enjoyed it with a classic ginger mojito when entertaining guests, which adds a playful zing to the meal.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, I’ve found that using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts adds a richer flavor and more tender texture to the stir-fry. You can also try chicken tenderloins for an even quicker cook time. For a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos is an excellent option, especially if you’re avoiding gluten or soy altogether.

For those who prefer a plant-based version, I’ve successfully substituted the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Just be sure to press the tofu well before cooking to get a nice crisp outside. Skip the chicken and add extra broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas for a delightful veggie-packed meal. Experimenting with different aromatics like shallots instead of onion or adding a splash of chili paste can introduce exciting new flavors to this classic stir-fry.

In terms of cooking methods, you could try grilling the chicken separately to add a smoky depth, then mix it with steamed broccoli and toss in the soy glaze at the end. Or, use a wok if you have one to get those authentic high-heat stir-fry results that create slightly charred, flavorful bites.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though I doubt there will be many!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I recommend using a glass container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness and minimize odor transfer. Your stir-fry will stay good for about 2 to 3 days when refrigerated properly. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing and storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

While freezing leftovers might sound tempting, I personally do not recommend freezing this dish. The broccoli tends to become soft and loses its vibrant color after thawing, making the texture less appealing. If you want to freeze it, do so without the broccoli and add fresh broccoli when you reheat. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and consume within 1 month for the best flavor.

Reheating

The best way I reheat this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is gently in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps the sauce re-glaze the chicken and broccoli without drying it out. When reheating in the microwave, cover the dish loosely to retain moisture but avoid overcooking, which can make the chicken rubbery and the broccoli mushy. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps revive the sauce’s luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative because they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just slice them thinly like the breasts and adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Make sure your vegetable broth is also gluten-free. This swap keeps the delicious flavor intact while catering to gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can chop the vegetables and slice the chicken up to a day ahead to save time. I recommend keeping them separate and assembling just before cooking to maintain freshness. However, it’s best to cook and serve the stir-fry fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

What side dishes pair well with this stir-fry?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even noodles like soba or rice noodles. For a lighter meal, I enjoy a crisp Asian slaw or a fresh cucumber salad on the side to add freshness and crunch.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?

Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to add variety in texture and flavor. Just add them according to their cooking times so everything finishes perfectly together.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe at home. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Every time I make it, it reminds me why simple ingredients combined with a homemade soy glaze can create something truly special. Give it a go and treat yourself and your loved ones to this tasty, comforting stir-fry—you won’t regret it!