If you’re craving a quick, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dinner, this Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is your new best friend. Packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory teriyaki sauce, this dish comes together in minutes and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s an easy, flavorful Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry ready in minutes—perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A speedy meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights without compromising on taste.
- Vibrant, fresh ingredients: Crisp broccoli and tender chicken create a satisfying combo of texture and nutrition.
- Balanced flavors: The savory and slightly sweet teriyaki glaze truly makes the dish pop.
- Kid-friendly: Simple yet delicious, making it a hit with picky eaters and adults alike.
- Healthy comfort food: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome option that feels indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients that are easy to find yet come together to bring a wonderful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in crafting this delightful Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry experience.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks in the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the teriyaki glaze, delivering deep umami flavor.
- Brown sugar or honey: Brings the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the soy.
- Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced for aromatic warmth and a bit of zing.
- Rice vinegar or mirin: Adds subtle acidity and dimension to the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it the ideal glossy finish.
- Sesame oil: A fragrant drizzle that boosts the overall richness and nutty notes.
- Green onions: Optional but fantastic for a fresh garnish and mild pungency.
Variations for Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Feel free to experiment and tailor this Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry to your own tastes or dietary needs. This recipe is incredibly flexible and easy to switch up without losing that signature flavor.
- Swap proteins: Try tofu, shrimp, or beef strips for different takes on the dish.
- Add more veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots blend beautifully with the broccoli.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes, sliced chili, or a dash of Sriracha to give it a kick.
- Use gluten-free sauces: Tamari or coconut aminos work great for gluten sensitivities.
- Serve over different bases: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice make versatile, tasty options.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, cut the broccoli into small florets, and mince the garlic and ginger. This prep work ensures quick cooking and even flavor distribution.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar or mirin, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix in cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, which will help thicken the sauce once heated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Broccoli
In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets and stir fry until bright green and tender-crisp, around 3-4 minutes. If you prefer softer broccoli, add a splash of water and cover briefly.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet and pour over the prepared teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and broccoli evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sliced green onions on top, and if you like, a few toasted sesame seeds for texture. Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting.
Pro Tips for Making Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
- High heat is key: Searing the chicken and quickly cooking broccoli keeps everything tender with great texture.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: It transforms the sauce to a luscious glaze instead of just watery soy sauce.
- Prep ingredients ahead: Have everything sliced and ready before cooking to maximize speed and efficiency.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger: Powdered substitutes won’t give you that lively, fresh flavor punch.
- Let it rest briefly: After cooking, a minute or two allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Garnishes
Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or even a light vegetable fried rice to soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in a vibrant bowl topped with crunchy roasted cashews or alongside pickled vegetables for a balance of textures and acidity that brighten the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This stir fry freezes well when stored properly in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and broccoli’s crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine—just be sure to thaw and drain excess water beforehand to avoid a soggy texture in your stir fry.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
By swapping soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, you can easily make this Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild by default but easily customizable with chilies or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor, making the stir fry even more indulgent and tender.
What can I serve instead of rice?
Cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even noodles are fantastic alternatives that complement the rich teriyaki flavors well.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a shining example of how simple ingredients and quick cooking can yield a meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s the perfect go-to when you want a satisfying dinner that doesn’t keep you in the kitchen forever. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your weeknight rotation!