There are some weeknights that feel like a whirlwind. You know the ones I’m talking about—running from school pickups to evening activities, with a mountain of laundry waiting patiently in the corner. On those days, the last thing I want is a complicated dinner.
Recently, after a particularly chaotic Tuesday, I found myself staring into the fridge, completely uninspired. Then I saw it: a package of ground chicken and a head of broccoli. A lightbulb went off.
Twenty minutes later, my family was gathered around the table, happily devouring what has now become our go-to emergency meal: this incredible Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry. It’s savory, it’s satisfying, and it comes together faster than ordering takeout.
This simple ground chicken and broccoli stir fry is more than just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver for busy families who still want a delicious, home-cooked meal. I’m so excited to share this simple, flavor-packed Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with you!
Why You’ll Love This Quick Ground Chicken Stir Fry
This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Beyond its incredible flavor, there are so many reasons to fall in love with this Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry. It truly checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal.
- Unbelievably Fast: This entire meal is ready in under 20 minutes! Seriously. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you’re short on time but still crave something wholesome and delicious. It’s the ultimate easy ground chicken stir fry.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes? Yes, please! Everything cooks together in a single skillet or wok, making cleanup an absolute breeze. This one-pan approach also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein from the ground chicken and essential vitamins from the broccoli, this is a meal you can feel good about serving your family. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a fantastic healthy dinner option.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground chicken is an incredibly affordable protein. Combined with simple pantry staples for the sauce, this Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry delivers maximum flavor without breaking the bank.
- Endlessly Customizable: Think of this recipe as a template! You can easily swap in different vegetables, proteins, or even tweak the sauce to suit your family’s tastes. It’s a versatile dish that never gets boring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. You likely have many of these in your pantry already!
For the Stir Fry:
- Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon (or another high-heat oil like canola or grapeseed)
- Ground Chicken: 1 pound
- Yellow Onion: ½, finely diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated
- Broccoli Florets: 4 cups, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Water: ¼ cup (for steaming the broccoli)
For the Savory Stir Fry Sauce:
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: ¼ cup (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (or maple syrup)
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Green Onions: 2, thinly sliced
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this easy ground chicken stir fry is how adaptable it is. Don’t be afraid to get creative and use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Protein Swaps: If you don’t have ground chicken, ground turkey works beautifully. Ground pork or even lean ground beef would also be delicious alternatives in this recipe.
- Vegetable Additions: Clean out your veggie drawer! Sliced bell peppers (any color), shredded carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or water chestnuts would be fantastic additions. Just add them along with the broccoli.
- Make it Gluten-Free: To make a gluten-free version of this Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. You could also add a squirt of sriracha or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the stir fry sauce for an extra kick.
- Nut-Free Option: While sesame oil adds a wonderful nutty flavor, you can omit it if you have a nut allergy. The dish will still be incredibly flavorful without it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious and Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry on the table in no time. Remember to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking, as the process moves very quickly!
- Prepare the Sauce: First things first, let’s get the sauce ready. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Set it aside for later.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Next, heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced yellow onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to soften.
- Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Now it’s time to add more flavor! Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Steam the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and the ¼ cup of water to the skillet. Immediately cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium. Let the broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes tender-crisp and bright green. You don’t want it to get mushy!
- Combine and Thicken: Finally, give your prepared sauce another quick whisk and pour it all over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Increase the heat back to medium-high and stir everything together gently. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to bubble and thicken, coating every piece of this wonderful ground chicken and broccoli stir fry.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove your Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry from the heat. Serve it immediately over your favorite base, and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Success
Want to make your Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry absolutely perfect every time? Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For the best results, use a large skillet or a wok. Overcrowding the pan can cause the ingredients to steam instead of sear, which means you’ll miss out on that delicious browning. If you’re doubling the recipe, it’s best to cook the chicken in two separate batches.
- Prep Everything First (Mise en Place): Stir-frying is a very fast cooking process. You won’t have time to chop vegetables or mix the sauce once you start. Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the stove. This is the key to a stress-free quick stir fry recipe.
- Cut Broccoli Uniformly: Try to cut your broccoli florets into similar, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they all cook evenly and you don’t end up with some pieces that are mushy while others are still raw.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: The goal is tender-crisp broccoli, not soft and mushy. The steaming step is quick! Start checking it after 3 minutes. It should be bright green and have a slight bite to it. It will continue to cook a little more after you add the sauce. A perfect ground chicken stir fry has that wonderful textural contrast.
- Fresh is Best: While you can use pre-minced garlic and ginger from a jar, using fresh will give your Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry a much brighter and more vibrant flavor. It makes a noticeable difference!
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry makes fantastic leftovers! Proper storage is key to enjoying it the next day. Here’s how to do it right:
- Storage: Allow the stir fry to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Storing it while still warm can create condensation and make the dish watery.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat this dish is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it and heat it in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking the chicken and broccoli.
- Freezing: I generally don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the broccoli can become very soft and watery upon thawing. However, if you must, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This versatile Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can easily turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of my family’s favorite accompaniments:
- Steamed Rice: Classic and simple. Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious, savory sauce.
- Noodles: Serve it over a bed of cooked ramen, udon, or soba noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Quinoa: For a healthier, protein-packed alternative, quinoa is an excellent choice. Its nutty flavor complements the stir fry beautifully.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly option, cauliflower rice is the perfect base for this healthy chicken and broccoli recipe.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a fun and light meal, scoop the ground chicken and broccoli mixture into crisp lettuce cups, like iceberg or butter lettuce.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delicious Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you absolutely can! If using frozen broccoli florets, you don’t need to thaw them first. Simply add them directly to the skillet after the chicken is cooked.
You can skip the step of adding water, as the frozen broccoli will release enough moisture to steam itself as it cooks. Just cover the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the broccoli is heated through and tender-crisp.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
The cornstarch in the sauce recipe should thicken it nicely. If you prefer an even thicker sauce, you can create a small slurry. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth.
Stir this slurry into the stir fry during the final minute of cooking. The sauce will thicken up almost immediately.
Is this ground chicken and broccoli stir fry recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This is an excellent recipe for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and portion it into individual airtight containers with your choice of rice or quinoa. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a perfect grab-and-go lunch for the week.
What’s the best way to keep the ground chicken from getting dry?
The key is to not overcook it. Cook the ground chicken just until it’s no longer pink. It will continue to cook a bit more with the broccoli and the sauce.
Also, using ground chicken with a little bit of fat (like a 93/7 blend) rather than extra-lean ground chicken breast can help keep it moist and flavorful. This is a great tip for any easy ground chicken recipe.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Disclaimer: The following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. This is calculated for the Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry itself, without any sides like rice or noodles. This recipe is estimated to make 4 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 kcal |
| Protein | 31g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
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Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A Quick Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry that comes together in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. This savory dish is healthy, budget-friendly, and easily customizable, making it a go-to family meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon (or another high-heat oil like canola or grapeseed)
- Ground Chicken: 1 pound
- Yellow Onion: ½, finely diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated
- Broccoli Florets: 4 cups, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Water: ¼ cup (for steaming the broccoli)
For the Savory Stir Fry Sauce:
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: ¼ cup (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (or maple syrup)
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Green Onions: 2, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes
- Add ground chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant
- Add broccoli florets and water, cover, and steam for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli; cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens
- Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired
Notes
For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
Add any other vegetables you have on hand for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg