Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry Prep

Chicken and broccoli stir-fry is my go-to when I need a healthy meal that saves time and still feels satisfying This recipe makes multiple servings perfect for meal prep and it tastes even better throughout the week

I started making this on Sunday nights and found it kept me full and fueled during hectic workdays It is a meal I genuinely look forward to every time I open the fridge

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender when thinly sliced Look for chicken with minimal added liquid for best texture
• Broccoli florets: Offer crunch and are high in fiber Use fresh for a crisp bite or frozen for convenience
• Bell peppers: Bring color and natural sweetness Choose firm peppers with shiny skin for freshness
• Snap peas: Add a juicy texture and a pop of green Go for evenly sized pods that feel plump
• Cooking oil: Such as avocado or sesame oil ensures that ingredients do not stick and adds flavor
• Fresh garlic and ginger: Infuse the dish with aromatics Look for smooth firm ginger and heavy garlic cloves
• Soy sauce or tamari: Delivers a salty base Opt for reduced sodium to control seasoning
• Honey or maple syrup: Gives natural sweetness balancing out the salt and umami
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce quickly forming that glossy coating on every bite
• Chicken broth or water: Helps combine and extend the sauce without overpowering flavors Use a broth with simple ingredients
• Sesame oil: Delivers a nutty punch at the finish Toasted sesame oil is more aromatic
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa: Adds a hearty base making this a full meal Choose short grain brown rice for better texture
• Sesame seeds and green onions: Optional but give crunch and fresh flavor Adds a finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

Mix soy sauce honey garlic ginger and cornstarch in a medium bowl Add the thinly sliced chicken tossing until fully coated Let the chicken marinate at least fifteen minutes to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor

Cook the Chicken:

Heat two tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat When hot add the marinated chicken Spread it in a single layer so all pieces sear evenly Cook five to seven minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and edges are lightly browned Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet over medium high heat Pour in broccoli bell peppers and snap peas Toss everything well so the oil coats each piece Stir-fry for four to five minutes watching for color to brighten and veggies to become just crisp tender

Combine and Finish:

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with sesame oil Toss everything together to coat in the sauce Cook another two to three minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and all ingredients are piping hot

Pack for Meal Prep:

Spoon the finished stir fry evenly into your meal prep containers Layer each serving over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a balanced meal

Garnish and Store:

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onion if you like Allow everything to cool completely before sealing and storing in the refrigerator

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My favorite part is the hint of toasted sesame oil at the end It reminds me of the takeout I craved growing up but feels so much fresher and homemade My family always argues over who gets the portion with extra sauce at the bottom

Storage Tips

Let your meal prep containers cool completely before sealing and refrigerating This helps keep the veggies crisp Your stir fry will last well for up to four days For best flavor reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat with a tiny splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef strips tofu or shrimp Adjust cook time as needed Swap out snap peas for green beans carrots or baby corn if desired Use coconut aminos for a soy free option and maple syrup for a vegan spin

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stir fry over brown rice or quinoa for more fiber Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice are also fantastic If you want a hearty dinner add a soft boiled egg or sauté a quick side of mushrooms for more umami

Cultural Context

Chicken and broccoli stir fry is a classic dish on American Chinese menus but making it at home gives you full control of flavor and nutrition While it is inspired by restaurant favorites the version here is tailored for well balanced weekly meal prep that fits a busy lifestyle

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This stir-fry is a versatile staple that ensures a satisfying and flavorful meal every single time

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken tender?

Marinating the chicken with soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch helps it stay juicy and flavorful when cooked.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, both fresh and frozen broccoli or snap peas work well. Simply adjust stir-fry time as needed.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the meal gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture and freshness.

→ What sides pair well with this?

Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a balanced meal, or add extra veggies for more variety.