Easy Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

If you’re searching for a quick and healthy dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry is exactly what you need. Packed with vibrant green broccoli and tender ground chicken, tossed in a savory sauce, this recipe comes together fast and makes weeknight meals exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned home chef, this dish brings a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and bold taste in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Speedy Preparation: Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Balanced Nutrition: Combines lean protein and wholesome vegetables for a nourishing meal.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.
  • Versatility: Easily customizable with different veggies or sauces to suit your taste.
  • Minimal Cleanup: One-pan stir fry keeps kitchen mess to a minimum.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry is chosen to add flavor, texture, and nutrition without complicating the cooking process. These simple staples ensure a vibrant and tasty dish without overwhelming your kitchen.

  • Ground Chicken: Lean and tender, it cooks quickly and soaks up seasoning beautifully.
  • Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds crunch, vibrant color, and a boost of fiber and vitamins.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Fresh aromatics that build a flavorful base for the stir fry sauce.
  • Soy Sauce: Provides salty, umami richness to tie everything together.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty depth and authentic stir-fry aroma.
  • Green Onions: Sprinkled on top for a mild onion bite and color contrast.
  • Optional Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love a hint of heat without overpowering the flavors.

Variations for Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

This recipe’s simplicity makes it a perfect base to experiment with according to your preferences, dietary needs, or seasonal finds. Feel free to mix and match!

  • Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, beef, or tofu if you want to change it up.
  • Add Different Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots create beautiful color and added crunch.
  • Spice it Up: Toss in Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a bold and spicy twist.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
  • Enhance the Sauce: Add a little honey or hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness.
Easy Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

How to Make Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the broccoli into bite-sized florets, mincing the garlic and ginger, and slicing the green onions. Having everything ready before cooking speeds up the process and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Broccoli and Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re crisp-tender and bright green.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked ground chicken to the pan. Pour soy sauce and a splash of water or chicken broth to create a light sauce. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry.

Step 5: Finish with Green Onions and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and optional red pepper flakes on top. Give it one last gentle toss and it’s ready to plate.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and broccoli significantly elevate the flavor and texture.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure the chicken browns nicely rather than steams.
  • High Heat is Key: Use high heat for stir-frying to keep vegetables crisp and chicken browned.
  • Customize Your Sauce: Taste and adjust saltiness or sweetness during cooking for a perfect balance.
  • Let It Rest Briefly: After cooking, resting the stir fry for a minute helps flavors meld wonderfully.

How to Serve Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

Garnishes

Fresh green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice add brightness and texture that really finish the dish with flair.

Side Dishes

Serve over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. A side of crunchy Asian slaw or a simple cucumber salad pairs beautifully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving in lettuce wraps for a fun and hands-on meal, or pack it into a gluten-free tortilla for a fusion lunch wrap. For meal prep, portion into containers with rice and veggies ready to heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the stir fry and any sides separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This stir fry freezes well. Cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to revive moisture, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess water making the stir fry soggy.

Is ground chicken a healthy alternative to other ground meats?

Absolutely! It’s typically leaner than beef or pork, making it a great choice for a lighter meal while still providing ample protein.

How spicy is this stir fry?

The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add chili flakes, Sriracha, or hot sauce to customize the heat level to your liking.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead and store them separately to save time. Cook the stir fry fresh or reheat leftovers for a quick meal.

What’s a good alternative if I don’t eat soy?

Tamari or coconut aminos are excellent soy-free substitutes that maintain the savory umami flavor without gluten or soy concerns.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry is a true weeknight hero — fast, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your rotation, perfect for those nights when you want something wholesome but hassle-free. Give it a go and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that feels homemade and satisfying every single time.

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Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry

A quick and healthy Ground Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry featuring tender ground chicken and crisp broccoli tossed in a savory sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful one-pan dish offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, ideal for nutritious weeknight meals with minimal cleanup.

  • Author: Nina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth (for sauce)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready before cooking speeds up the process and ensures even cooking.
  2. Cook the Ground Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Broccoli and Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender and bright green.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked ground chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and a splash of water or chicken broth to create a light sauce. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Finish with Green Onions and Serve: Turn off the heat, sprinkle sliced green onions and optional red pepper flakes on top. Give it one last gentle toss and plate immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic, ginger, and broccoli to elevate flavor and texture.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure browning.
  • Maintain high heat throughout to keep vegetables crisp and chicken nicely browned.
  • Customize sauce seasoning for perfect saltiness or sweetness as desired.
  • Allow the stir fry to rest briefly after cooking to meld flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days; freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop with added moisture or in microwave with stirring.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: ground chicken stir fry, broccoli stir fry, healthy dinner, quick dinner, gluten free stir fry

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