Introduction
The first time I tried Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze, I was wandering through the bustling streets of Manhattan’s Chinatown. The aroma of sizzling garlic, soy, and tender chicken wafted out from a tiny restaurant, making it impossible to resist. I ordered a plate, and from the first bite, I was hooked. The chicken was juicy, the broccoli perfectly crisp, and the sauce—a delicate balance of savory, sweet, and umami—coated every bite with rich flavor.
Years later, I recreated this dish at home, refining the sauce to a silky glaze that clings beautifully to both chicken and broccoli. It’s now my go-to weeknight dinner: quick, healthy, and always satisfying. With a touch of garlic, fresh broccoli, and a homemade soy sauce glaze, this stir fry brings restaurant flavors straight to your kitchen.
Thanks for being here. I hope these recipes bring warmth to your kitchen and a little joy to your day.
Table of Contents
Why Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze Is a Family Favorite
Chicken and broccoli stir fry has become a staple in American kitchens because it is:
- Quick and easy: Takes less than 30 minutes from prep to table.
- Healthy: Lean protein from chicken and fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from broccoli.
- Versatile: Can be adapted to include other vegetables or protein options.
According to Healthline, broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K and provides a high fiber content that aids digestion (source).
Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry
Chicken Selection & Prep
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs | 1 lb | Thighs stay juicier; breast is leaner |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | Fresh for the best flavor |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | Low-sodium recommended |
| Cornstarch | 2 tsp | For coating and thickening glaze |
| Olive oil or vegetable oil | 2 tbsp | High smoke point for stir frying |
Vegetables & Aromatics
| Vegetable | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups | Steam slightly before stir fry for crisp-tender |
| Carrots, sliced | 1 cup | Optional for color and sweetness |
| Green onions | 2 | For garnish |
| Ginger, minced | 1 tsp | Enhances aroma |
Soy Sauce Glaze
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | Low-sodium |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | Adds sweetness |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tsp | Balances flavors |
| Cornstarch | 1 tsp | Thickens glaze |
| Water | 2 tbsp | Helps dissolve cornstarch |
How to Make Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry Step by Step
3.1 Preparing the Chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized strips.
- Coat lightly with 1 tsp cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet until shimmering.
- Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3.2 Stir-Frying the Vegetables
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the hot pan; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and carrots; stir fry 2–3 minutes. Broccoli should remain crisp-tender.
3.3 Making the Soy Sauce Glaze
- Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl.
- Pour over vegetables in the pan and bring to a simmer until thickened.
3.4 Combining Everything
- Return chicken to the wok.
- Toss everything until the chicken is coated with the glossy soy glaze.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (optional).
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Stir Fry
- Cook high heat for that slightly smoky flavor known as “wok hei.”
- Avoid overcrowding the pan—stir fry in batches if needed.
- Pre-cut all ingredients; stir fry moves fast.
- Taste the sauce before combining—it should balance salty, sweet, and tangy notes.
For more flavor-packed recipes, check out our Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Variations on Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry
- Honey Soy Glaze: Add 2 tbsp honey for a sweeter, sticky glaze.
- Mixed Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms add color and flavor.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh, follow same glaze instructions.
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice.
- Toss with lo-mein noodles for a classic Chinese-American dinner.
- Use as a bento box filling with edamame and pickled veggies for lunch.
- Pair with spring rolls or egg rolls for a restaurant-style experience.
Nutrition Facts & Healthy Adjustments
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
Healthy Adjustments:
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt.
- Air-fry or grill chicken instead of pan-frying for less oil.
- Add extra vegetables like broccoli stems, bell peppers, or zucchini.
For more flavor-packed recipes, check out our Garlic Butter Noodles
Quick Kitchen Hacks for Restaurant-Style Stir Fry
- Use a wok for even heat distribution and faster cooking.
- Prepare ingredients first; stir fry takes 5–7 minutes.
- Adjust glaze: Mix soy, honey, vinegar, and cornstarch to your preferred sweetness and thickness.
- Garnish: Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or chili flakes for flair.
For more flavor-packed recipes, check out our Asian-Inspired Dinner Recipes.
FAQs About Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze
What is chicken and broccoli stir fry?
It’s a quick Asian-inspired dish combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful soy-based sauce.
What sauce to put in a chicken stir-fry?
A combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and optional rice vinegar or sesame oil works best.
How to make stir fry sauce with soy sauce and honey?
A: Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water; simmer until slightly thickened.
What is chicken and broccoli sauce made of?
Typically soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar or honey, cornstarch, and sometimes oyster sauce.
Conclusion
Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. With juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and a sweet-savory glaze, it’s a dish that pleases the whole family. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles and enjoy restaurant-quality stir fry at home.
For more flavor-packed recipes, check out our Asian-Inspired Dinner Recipes.
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Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze
Description
This Savory Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze is a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken bites are coated in a luscious soy-honey glaze and paired with crisp-tender broccoli, sautéed garlic, and fresh ginger. Bursting with umami flavor and a hint of sweetness, this dish is perfect over steamed rice or noodles and comes together in just 25 minutes—restaurant-quality taste without the hassle!
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil
Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the chicken: Toss chicken pieces with 1 tsp cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli and cook 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
Make the soy glaze: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and 2 tbsp water. Pour over vegetables and simmer until thickened.
Combine everything: Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
Serve and garnish: Plate immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Top with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu.
Adjust the honey for more or less sweetness according to your taste.
Perfect served with steamed rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28 g
