Some meals strike the perfect balance between flavor, simplicity, and comfort—and teriyaki chicken and broccoli stir fry is one of them. It’s the kind of dish you reach for on a busy evening when you want something fast, wholesome, and full of bold flavor.
Tender pieces of chicken, crisp broccoli, and a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce come together in a skillet to create a meal that tastes better than takeout but takes only minutes to prepare. With sweet, savory, and slightly sticky flavors, this stir fry is versatile enough for weeknights, meal prep, or a healthy lunch you can pack ahead.
This recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated steps or rare ingredients to create something delicious—just smart technique and a good balance of flavors.
Why Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Works So Well
This stir fry shines because each part adds something essential:
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Chicken provides lean protein and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
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Broccoli stays crisp yet tender, adding color, fiber, and freshness.
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Homemade teriyaki sauce brings the perfect sweet-salty balance and coats every bite.
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Stir-frying gives you flavor quickly without long cooking time.
The result is a dish that feels light, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful—all cooked in one pan.
Equipment You’ll Need
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Large skillet or wok
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Cutting board
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Sharp knife
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Small bowl (for teriyaki sauce)
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Tongs
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Stir Fry
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1–1.25 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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2 tbsp oil (vegetable, avocado, or sesame)
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4 cups broccoli florets
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
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½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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¼ cup water
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3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
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1 tbsp mirin (optional, but adds great flavor)
For Serving
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Cooked rice or noodles
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Sesame seeds
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Sliced green onions
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
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Total Time: 22–25 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
This recipe moves quickly, so having your ingredients prepped makes everything easier and more enjoyable.
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden on the edges and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Professional Tip: Let the pan get hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a light sear and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Step 2. Sauté Broccoli and Aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli and cook for 3–4 minutes until it turns bright green and slightly tender.
Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Aromatics like garlic and ginger elevate the entire dish—they bring the warmth and depth that teriyaki dishes are known for.
Step 3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir the cornstarch with water separately to form a slurry.
Pour the soy mixture into the skillet over the broccoli, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. The sauce will thicken within 1–2 minutes.
Insight: Using a slurry keeps the sauce glossy, smooth, and the perfect consistency to cling to the chicken and vegetables.
Step 4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat each piece in the teriyaki sauce.
Let the stir fry simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors come together and everything heats through.
Step 5. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot over rice or noodles. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for freshness and crunch.
This dish is ready to enjoy immediately and tastes just as good the next day.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
One of the best parts of stir fry recipes is how easily they adapt to different ingredients and preferences.
Vegetable Add-Ins
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Snap peas
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Carrots
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Baby corn
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Bell peppers
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Mushrooms
Protein Swaps
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Shrimp (cooks in 2–3 minutes)
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Beef strips
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Tofu
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Turkey breast
Make It Spicy
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Add chili flakes
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Stir in sriracha
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Add a spoonful of sambal oelek
Lower Sugar Version
Use maple syrup instead of honey, or reduce the sweetener by 1 tablespoon.
Nutritional Facts (Approx. per Serving)
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Calories: 320–360
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Protein: 28–32g
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Carbohydrates: 25–30g
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Fat: 10–14g
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Fiber: 2–3g
Values vary depending on the amount of sauce and oil used.
Health and Nutrition Benefits
This stir fry is balanced, satisfying, and packed with nutrients.
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High in protein: Chicken supports muscle health and keeps you full longer.
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Rich in vitamins: Broccoli provides vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants.
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Homemade sauce: Lets you control sodium and sugar compared to bottled versions.
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Balanced meal: Carbs, protein, and vegetables all come together in one bowl.
It’s a great option for anyone looking for nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.
What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli
Although it’s delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side enhances the experience.
Best Serving Ideas
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Jasmine or basmati rice
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Brown rice for a higher-fiber option
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Rice noodles or udon noodles
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Cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist
A simple cucumber salad or miso soup makes an excellent side, too.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
This dish is ideal for meal prep because it reheats well without losing flavor or texture.
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Reheating
Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Expert Tips for the Best Stir Fry
Use High Heat
Stir fry works best when the pan is hot—it helps vegetables stay crisp and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli
Cook just until bright green. Overcooking makes it mushy and dull in flavor.
Don’t Skip the Aromatics
Ginger and garlic are essential to achieving that classic teriyaki depth.
Balance the Sauce
Taste as you go. Adjust sweetness or saltiness depending on your preference.
Love warm and filling dinners like this? You may also enjoy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats, Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini, or Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden on the edges and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Professional Tip: Let the pan get hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a light sear and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the broccoli and cook for 3–4 minutes until it turns bright green and slightly tender.
- Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Aromatics like garlic and ginger elevate the entire dish—they bring the warmth and depth that teriyaki dishes are known for.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir the cornstarch with water separately to form a slurry.
- Pour the soy mixture into the skillet over the broccoli, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. The sauce will thicken within 1–2 minutes.
- Insight: Using a slurry keeps the sauce glossy, smooth, and the perfect consistency to cling to the chicken and vegetables.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat each piece in the teriyaki sauce.
- Let the stir fry simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors come together and everything heats through.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for freshness and crunch.
- This dish is ready to enjoy immediately and tastes just as good the next day.
Conclusion
This teriyaki chicken and broccoli stir fry brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a glossy homemade sauce in a dish that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavor. It’s fast enough for hectic evenings but special enough to feel like a treat. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, weeknight cooking, or a simple weekend dinner, it’s a recipe that always hits the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes. Thaw and pat dry frozen broccoli before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the stir fry.
2. What cut of chicken works best for stir fry?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs sliced thin cook quickly and stay tender.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. This dish stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
4. How can I make teriyaki chicken less sweet?
Use low-sugar teriyaki sauce or reduce the sauce amount slightly and add more soy sauce.
5. What can I serve with teriyaki chicken and broccoli?
Serve over steamed rice, brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.