Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli

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Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli is one of those meals I never get tired of making. It checks every box: it’s fast, flavorful, healthy, and satisfying. The aroma of garlic sizzling in the pan instantly brings comfort, and once the chicken starts to caramelize, I already know dinner will be a hit.

I started cooking this dish on busy weeknights when time and energy were both short. What surprised me is how something so simple could deliver so much flavor. The blend of tender chicken, garlicky sauce, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice never fails to come together beautifully.

What I love most is how customizable it is. Some nights I throw in sliced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms depending on what’s in my fridge. Other times, I swap the rice for brown rice or even quinoa. No matter what, it always turns out delicious, and it’s become a family favorite around here.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli

This recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and taste. You get that classic takeout flavor, but with wholesome ingredients and complete control over the portions and seasoning. It’s perfect for meal prep, reheats well, and can be adapted to suit low-carb or gluten-free diets.

Everything cooks in one pan, which means less cleanup. And because it comes together in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights or even a quick weekend lunch. The garlic adds depth, the soy sauce adds that savory umami note, and the vegetables bring freshness and crunch. It’s comforting and nourishing all at once.

Ingredients

Chicken breast: Lean and protein-packed, this is the heart of the dish. I always choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for quicker cooking and easy slicing.

Garlic: Essential. Freshly minced garlic is the flavor foundation here, bringing that unmistakable punch that makes the stir fry shine.

Soy sauce: It brings saltiness and depth, creating that takeout-style umami character that coats every bite.

Broccoli: Bright, crisp, and nutritious, broccoli balances the richness of the sauce and adds texture and color to the plate.

Cooked white rice: The perfect bed for all the saucy stir fry ingredients. It soaks up the flavors and rounds out the meal.

Vegetable oil: Used to sear the chicken and bring out the garlic’s aroma. A neutral oil works best to let the other flavors pop.

Cornstarch: Helps the sauce cling to the chicken while keeping the meat juicy and tender during cooking.

Brown sugar: Just a hint to balance out the salt and add a touch of caramelized flavor.

Sesame oil (optional): A drizzle at the end gives the dish a nutty aroma and extra depth.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken

Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized strips and toss them with soy sauce, a bit of cornstarch, and a pinch of brown sugar. Let it sit while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Steam or blanch the broccoli florets just until they’re tender-crisp. You want them vibrant and slightly firm to hold up in the stir fry.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add the marinated chicken and cook over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Sauce

Lower the heat and add minced garlic, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in a mix of soy sauce and a touch of water or chicken broth. Add steamed broccoli and toss everything together to coat.

Step 5: Serve Over Rice

Scoop the cooked white rice into bowls and top with the garlic chicken stir fry. If using, drizzle a bit of sesame oil over the top. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken breast, boneless chicken thighs make a great alternative. They’re slightly more flavorful and forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for extra-firm tofu or even tempeh. Simply press, cube, and sear the tofu until golden before adding the garlic and sauce.

Broccoli can be switched up with snow peas, zucchini, baby corn, or bell peppers. I’ve even used shredded cabbage in a pinch and it worked beautifully. If you’re watching carbs, skip the rice and serve it over cauliflower rice or a bed of shredded lettuce for a stir fry bowl.

To make this gluten-free, just substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. And if you like things spicy, throw in red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha during the sauce step.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I like to serve this stir fry right over hot jasmine or basmati rice, though brown rice or even quinoa make great bases as well. For a low-carb twist, cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles also pair beautifully.

This dish goes well with a crisp side salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette or even a bowl of miso soup. For drinks, a cold glass of green tea or a light ginger beer enhances the meal without overpowering it.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli stores well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container, ideally with the rice and stir fry stored separately to preserve the texture.

To reheat, I like to use a skillet over medium heat with just a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce and prevent burning. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each round until hot.

FAQs

How long does Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli last in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli?

Yes, but I recommend freezing the chicken and veggies without the rice to preserve texture. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli?

Using a skillet with a bit of water works best to refresh the sauce and keep everything tender. Microwaving is also fine for convenience.

Can I make Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli spicy?

Absolutely. Add crushed red pepper flakes, sliced fresh chili, or sriracha when you add the garlic and sauce.

Is Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli good for meal prep?

Definitely. It reheats well, stores nicely in containers, and tastes just as good the next day.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoy the flavors of Garlic Chicken Stir Fry with Rice and Broccoli, you should definitely check out my Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry for another quick, veggie-loaded dinner idea. It has the same balance of bright, savory, and satisfying notes.

You might also love my Easy Chicken Fried Rice, which is a classic choice when you want that cozy takeout vibe but made at home with simple ingredients.

Or for something that leans more tropical and sweet-savory, try the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken. It’s incredibly easy and bursting with flavor.

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