Stir-Fried Broccoli and Carrots with Chicken: A Healthy and Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious recipe that balances protein, fresh vegetables, and mouthwatering flavors, then this stir-fried broccoli and carrots with chicken dish is exactly what you need. It’s a classic Asian-inspired stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even when you just crave something light yet satisfying.

This recipe combines tender chicken strips, crisp-tender broccoli florets, and sweet carrots tossed in a savory garlic-soy sauce. The best part? You can make it in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to prepare this recipe (serves 4):

For the Chicken & Vegetables:

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), thinly sliced
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 ½ cups carrots, thinly sliced into matchsticks or diagonal rounds
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (can use canola or sesame oil for flavor)
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated (optional but highly recommended)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (adds depth; can substitute with hoisin sauce)
1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar) for sweetness
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
½ cup chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (to thicken sauce)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts thinly against the grain.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this helps in getting a nice sear).
Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, chicken broth, and cornstarch slurry.
Set aside – this will be your glossy stir-fry sauce.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add chicken slices and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
Toss in garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add carrots first and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes (since they take longer to soften).
Add broccoli and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.

5. Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
Pour in the prepared sauce.
Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and veggies.

6. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles.

Serving Suggestions

With Rice: Classic pairing – fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice.
With Noodles: Toss the stir-fry with lo mein, rice noodles, or even spaghetti for a quick noodle bowl.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Tips for the Best Stir-Fry

High Heat is Key: Stir-frying works best on medium-high to high heat for a slightly smoky flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Broccoli should stay crisp and vibrant green. Overcooking will make it mushy.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and carrots give better texture than frozen ones.
Adjust the Sauce: If you like it sweeter, add more honey. For saltiness, add extra soy sauce. For heat, increase chili flakes or drizzle in sriracha.
Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, without rice)

Calories: ~280
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g

This dish is high in protein, rich in vitamins A and C, and low in calories, making it perfect for anyone who wants a healthy, balanced dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes
Packed with nutrients
Kid-friendly and family-approved
Easy to customize with other veggies (like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms)

Next time you’re craving something quick, healthy, and satisfying, whip up this stir-fried broccoli and carrots with chicken recipe. It’s colorful, flavorful, and sure to become one of your go-to weeknight dinners.