Introduction

This easy 30-minute chicken and broccoli stir-fry is a weeknight hero, delivering more flavor than takeout without the wait. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory mushrooms come together in a rich, glossy sauce for a complete meal served over steamed rice. For another quick chicken dinner, try this Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy stir-fry combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a savory, glossy sauce with earthy mushrooms, all ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying weeknight meal.

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (divided)
• 1 lb broccoli florets (about 5 cups)
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced into strips
• 1/2 lb white button mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or hoisin for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Steamed white rice, for serving
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, thanks to streamlined prep and a single-pan cooking method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Ingredients

Slice the chicken breast into thin, bite-sized strips. Cut the broccoli into florets and slice the mushrooms. Mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped and within reach is crucial for a smooth stir-fry process.

Step 2 — Cook the Rice

Begin cooking your steamed rice according to package instructions so it’s ready when the stir-fry is done. For best results, use a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio for white rice and bring to a boil before reducing to a low simmer, covered, for 15–18 minutes.

Step 3 — Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. This ensures perfect texture in the final dish.

Step 4 — Sear the Chicken

Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the chicken in a single layer, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes to get a good sear, then stir-fry until no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes total. Remove and set aside.

Step 5 — Sauté the Aromatics & Mushrooms

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the mushrooms until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant to avoid burning.

Step 6 — Combine and Sauce

Return the chicken and blanched broccoli to the pan. Pour in your stir-fry sauce (a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sesame oil works well). Toss everything together over high heat for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats all ingredients.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of sugar if desired. The chicken and broccoli stir-fry with mushrooms is done when everything is hot and glossy with sauce. Serve immediately over the steamed rice.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~55 g
Fat	~15 g
Fiber	~6 g
Sodium	~850 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size; values can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

This versatile chicken and broccoli stir-fry recipe can be easily adapted to meet different dietary needs or simply to use what you have on hand. Here are some practical swaps to try.

• Protein Swap (Tofu) — Use extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for a plant-based version. It soaks up the savory sauce beautifully and offers a satisfying texture.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the steamed rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles to significantly reduce the carbohydrate content while keeping the meal filling.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Ensure your soy sauce or tamari is certified gluten-free. This simple switch makes the entire dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Note — The standard recipe is naturally dairy-free, but always double-check any pre-made sauces or broth you use to confirm they contain no hidden dairy derivatives.
• Low-Sodium Version — Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and a low-sodium broth. You can amplify flavor with fresh ginger, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar instead.
• Veggie Boost — Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or water chestnuts along with the broccoli for extra color, crunch, and nutrients.
• Protein Swap (Shrimp) — For a quicker cook, use peeled shrimp. They cook in just 2-3 minutes, so add them at the very end to avoid overcooking.
• Oil Alternative — For a different flavor profile, try stir-frying with avocado oil or toasted sesame oil (use just a teaspoon for finishing, as it has a low smoke point).

Serving Suggestions

• For a complete meal, serve this Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice alongside a light, refreshing side like a cucumber salad or a simple miso soup.
• Make it a casual feast by pairing it with other Asian-inspired dishes such as spring rolls or potstickers for a fun and interactive dinner party.
• This stir-fry is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, offering a balanced plate of protein and vegetables in under 30 minutes.
• Elevate your plating by serving the stir-fry in a shallow bowl with the steamed rice forming a bed underneath, allowing the vibrant colors of the broccoli and mushrooms to shine.
• For a heartier occasion, consider adding a fried egg on top or mixing in some crispy fried shallots for extra texture and flavor.
• To keep the meal light and low-carb, you can easily substitute the steamed rice with cauliflower rice or enjoy the stir-fry on its own.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this versatile Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcrowding the wok or pan, which steams the ingredients instead of searing them. Fix: Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets proper contact with the hot surface for a good sear.
• Mistake: Using raw, unmarinated chicken breast, leading to bland, dry meat. Fix: Briefly marinate the chicken in soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little oil to tenderize and season it.
• Mistake: Adding all vegetables at the same time, resulting in mushy broccoli and undercooked mushrooms. Fix: Stir-fry harder vegetables like broccoli first, then add quicker-cooking items like mushrooms later.
• Mistake: Dumping a cold sauce directly onto the stir-fry, which kills the wok’s heat. Fix: Have your sauce mixture pre-mixed and at room temperature, then pour it around the edges of the hot pan.
• Mistake: Cutting chicken and vegetables in uneven sizes, causing inconsistent cooking. Fix: Take time to cut everything into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even heat distribution.
• Mistake: Using low heat, which fails to create the signature “wok hei” or breath of the wok flavor. Fix: Ensure your pan is smoking hot before adding oil and always preheat it thoroughly.
• Mistake: Stirring the food constantly, which prevents browning and caramelization. Fix: Let ingredients sit for 30-60 seconds after adding to develop a flavorful sear before tossing.
• Mistake: Serving steamed rice that is clumpy or gummy from being overcooked. Fix: Rinse your rice until the water runs clear before cooking and let it rest, covered, off the heat after cooking.
• Mistake: Skipping the cornstarch slurry in the sauce, resulting in a thin, watery consistency. Fix: A small amount of cornstarch mixed with water is essential for creating a glossy sauce that clings to the chicken and broccoli.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating to maintain food safety.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry (without the steamed rice for best texture) in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

For best results, store the steamed rice separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. The rice can be refreshed with a few drops of water when reheating.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice is a fast, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner. If you enjoyed this easy stir-fry, try our Teriyaki Chicken With Steamed Rice Recipe next. Give this recipe a try, leave a comment with your review, and subscribe for more delicious meals!

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FAQs

Can I use a different protein in this stir-fry?

Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken. Thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or firm tofu are excellent alternatives for this Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on your chosen protein to ensure it is cooked through but not overdone.

How do I prevent the broccoli from getting soggy?

To keep your broccoli crisp-tender, blanch it in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes before adding it to the stir-fry. This quick pre-cook, called blanching, ensures it finishes cooking perfectly in the hot pan without becoming mushy in your Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat the stir-fry components separately from the steamed rice. A skillet over medium heat works well to revive the chicken and vegetables without overcooking them. This method helps maintain the quality of your Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice.