Ground chicken and broccoli stir fry is a delightful dish that perfectly balances savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re pressed for time on a busy weekday or seeking a nutritious and tasty meal for the family, this stir fry stands out as a beloved option. What makes it truly special is its simplicity and versatility—this one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also loaded with wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to for health-conscious eaters and busy home cooks alike.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine whipping up a delicious and nutritious meal in under 30 minutes—doesn’t that sound amazing? This ground chicken and broccoli stir fry is an excellent choice for busy nights when you want to serve something healthy yet comforting. The combination of juicy chicken and crunchy broccoli, infused with garlic and ginger, creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
"This stir fry is now a staple in our house! Quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious!" – a happy home cook.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual family brunch, this dish is budget-friendly as well. Ground chicken is often more affordable than beef or pork, and paired with fresh broccoli, it’s not only nourishing but also a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making ground chicken and broccoli stir fry is a breeze! The entire process is straightforward, and you’ll find yourself preparing this dish on repeat. It all starts with browning some ground chicken, followed by sautéing garlic and ginger, and then adding in the vibrant broccoli. The soy sauce and sesame oil tie it all together, creating a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.
Feel free to adapt the cooking time according to your preferred tenderness for the broccoli, keeping in mind that the key to a great stir fry is maintaining a bit of crispness in your veggies.
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
If you’re aiming for a different flavor profile, you can substitute the ground chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option, and feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Push the chicken to the side of the pan and add the garlic, ginger, and broccoli. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright and slightly crunchy.
- Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil, stirring to coat the chicken and broccoli evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Turn off the heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This ground chicken and broccoli stir fry can be served over a bed of fluffy rice or tossed with noodles for a heartier meal. For an even lighter option, serve it on a bed of leafy greens, or accompany it with a side of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with extra green onions for a pop of freshness!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is likely because this dish is so satisfying!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick stir in the microwave should do the trick. If you prefer to freeze this dish, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to cool it completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe container.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your stir fry game, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir frying is all about speed, so having everything on hand will help you maintain that delicious crunch in your vegetables. A well-seasoned wok or skillet can make a significant difference in how your chicken and veggies cook, so ensure it’s hot enough to sizzle as you add your ingredients.
Creative Twists
Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe! Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots for additional color and nutrition. You can also switch up the sauce by using teriyaki for a sweet twist or even making it spicy with chili paste. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle on some crushed peanuts or cashews before serving for an extra crunch!
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this stir fry?
Prep time is around 10 minutes, with cooking taking about 10-15 minutes. You can have this delicious meal ready to serve in about 30 minutes!
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be a great time-saver. Just remember to thaw and drain it before using to prevent excess water in your stir fry.
How can I make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free soy sauce substitute like tamari, and ensure that any other sauces or ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
By preparing this flavorful stir fry at home, you’re not just saving time and money—you’re creating a dish that’s healthy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
PrintGround Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
A quick and nutritious stir fry combining ground chicken and fresh broccoli for a delicious weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Push the chicken to the side of the pan and add the garlic, ginger, and broccoli. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright and slightly crunchy.
- Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil, stirring to coat the chicken and broccoli evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Turn off the heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
This dish can be customized with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition. Serve over rice or noodles for a heartier meal.