If you’re in search of a fast, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that will have everyone reaching for seconds, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is calling your name! Juicy chicken bites and vibrant broccoli florets get tossed in a garlicky, savory-sweet sauce that’s made for cozying up over fluffy rice (though honestly, it’s delicious all on its own). Every bite is bursting with bold flavors and the gorgeous green hue of the broccoli brings eye-catching freshness. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is one of those magical recipes you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This lineup of ingredients proves that simple can still be spectacular. Every element in Garlic Chicken with Broccoli plays a key role, whether it’s adding depth of flavor, a touch of sweetness, or the perfect snap of bright color.
- Chicken breasts: Lean and protein-rich, cut into bite-sized pieces for speedy, even cooking.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, these add brilliant color and a fun crunch to the dish.
- Olive oil: Divided for sautéing both the chicken and broccoli, lending a lovely richness.
- Garlic cloves: The star of the show, freshly minced for maximum punch and aroma.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides that essential umami backbone and salty bite.
- Honey: Just a little goes a long way for beautifully balancing sweetness.
- Cornstarch: Whisked with water to give the sauce that irresistible glossy thickness.
- Water: Helps the sauce ingredients blend smoothly and evenly coat the chicken and broccoli.
- Black pepper: A freshly-ground kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- Sesame oil (optional): Adds an unmistakable nutty fragrance at the finish.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional): Perfect for an inviting crunch and fresh, vibrant garnish.
How to Make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by getting your skillet (or wok) nice and hot over medium-high heat with two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle over the black pepper, and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes. You’re looking for golden, slightly crisp edges and chicken that’s cooked right through—so stir occasionally for even browning. Once it’s juicy and cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside while you tackle the veggie portion.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
In that same pan, drizzle in your last tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the broccoli florets. Let them sizzle for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally so they get a little bit tender but still keep that glorious color and snap. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s steamed and drained first to avoid excess water in the pan. The aroma of broccoli and olive oil is always a welcome sign that dinner is nearing!
Step 3: Whisk Up the Sauce
While the broccoli is getting cozy, quickly whisk up the sauce: combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. The cornstarch is your secret to a sauce that turns beautifully glossy and clings to every morsel of chicken and broccoli. Make sure everything is well combined, with no lumps in the mix.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back into the pan with the broccoli. Pour your whisked sauce right over everything, then give it a good stir so every piece is coated in that savory, garlicky goodness. Let it cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the sauce thickens and gets glossy. If you love a little extra depth, now’s the time to add that optional drizzle of sesame oil—a little goes a long way!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To finish off your Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for crunch and a pop of color. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot—this dish shines brightest straight from the stove over steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or even solo for a lighter meal.
How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Broccoli
Garnishes
A few thoughtful garnishes can truly make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli unforgettable. Try a handful of toasty sesame seeds for a nutty finish, a scattering of thinly-sliced green onion for brightness, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re craving some heat. Don’t hold back—the extras are what make everyone’s plate feel special!
Side Dishes
While Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is plenty satisfying on its own, it absolutely loves good company. Serve it on a bed of jasmine rice to soak up all that luscious sauce, or pair it with quinoa if you want a boost of nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor. Feeling adventurous? A tangle of rice noodles or a side of steamed dumplings can turn this into a full-on Asian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be shy about mixing things up! For a fresh twist on Garlic Chicken with Broccoli, try stuffing leftovers into lettuce cups for a low-carb, handheld dinner, or pile everything onto a platter for a colorful, family-style presentation. You can even spoon it into meal prep bowls with brown rice and extra veggies for lunches that make your coworkers jealous all week.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chicken with Broccoli stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even more crave-worthy. Just be sure to cool everything completely before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, Garlic Chicken with Broccoli also freezes like a champ! Once cooled, portion it out into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll keep its quality for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Garlic Chicken with Broccoli gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it in short bursts, pausing to stir so everything heats evenly. Either way, aim for hot and steamy—never overcooked or dry!
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and natural juiciness to Garlic Chicken with Broccoli. Just cut them into similarly sized pieces and proceed as directed; they’ll soak up the savory sauce beautifully.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
Definitely. If you’re using frozen broccoli, steam or microwave it first so it’s hot and tender, then add it to the skillet as directed. Drain off any extra moisture before combining with the chicken for best texture.
Can I make Garlic Chicken with Broccoli gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Double-check your cornstarch and any other add-ins to make sure they’re gluten-free as well.
How spicy is this recipe?
This version of Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is pretty mild, making it family-friendly. If you like a bit of heat, stir in red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or a few finely sliced chilis (add to the sauce or as a garnish) to customize the spice level.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely—loading up on veggies is always encouraged! Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms would be delicious alongside the broccoli. Simply sauté them along with the broccoli for extra color and crunch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and make it your own. It’s a fast, vibrant, and utterly delicious recipe that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but tastes like a special occasion. Get ready to add a new staple to your dinner rotation—you’ll be amazed by just how quickly this flavorful favorite disappears from the table!
Print
Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful garlic chicken stir-fry with broccoli that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken pieces coated in a savory garlic sauce, paired with crisp-tender broccoli, all served over a bed of rice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
For the Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Other Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with black pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Broccoli: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl.
- Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over everything, and stir to coat. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil if using and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or on its own.
Notes
- For added spice, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
- Frozen broccoli can be used—just steam it before adding to the skillet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
