If there’s one dish that deserves a permanent place in your weekly rotation, it’s this Stir Fry Broccoli and Carrot with Chicken. It’s quick, vibrant, healthy, and absolutely bursting with flavor. This dish brings together crisp-tender vegetables and juicy chicken in a glossy, savory sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, prep meals ahead, or just want a fast dinner that everyone will love, this stir-fry is your go-to recipe. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, but flavorful enough to make you feel like you’re enjoying takeout from your favorite Asian restaurant — only fresher and cleaner.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 500 g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced thinly

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for marinating)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil

• 2 cups (200 g) broccoli florets

• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced thinly (on the bias for a nice look)

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small piece of fresh ginger (about 1 teaspoon), grated

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for sauce)

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in ¼ cup water (for thickening)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances flavor)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or sunflower oil (for cooking)

• Toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This simple step keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

2. Prepare your sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, and cornstarch-water mixture. Set aside.

3. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan), stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté aromatics: Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in onion, garlic, and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Add vegetables: Add broccoli and carrot. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are bright and slightly tender but still crisp. If needed, add a splash of water to help them steam for a minute.

6. Combine and sauce: Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together until well coated and glossy. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Taste and serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving

• Protein: 28 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Carbohydrates: 14 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Vitamin A: High (from carrots)

• Vitamin C: High (from broccoli)

• Sodium: Moderate

• Calcium: Good source

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Stir Fry Broccoli and Carrot with Chicken because it checks all the boxes — fast, healthy, colorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a complete meal in one pan with lean protein, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce that tastes just right — not too salty, not too sweet. Plus, you can whip it up in less than 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. It’s also easy to adapt with what you have on hand, and the ingredients are simple, budget-friendly, and available anywhere.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Stir-frying originated in China thousands of years ago as a quick-cooking technique designed to preserve the nutrients and vibrant colors of ingredients. This method spread worldwide because of its speed, efficiency, and ability to bring out bold flavors with minimal oil. This particular dish — with broccoli, carrots, and chicken — is a modern take on traditional Chinese stir-fry, blending Western pantry staples with Asian-inspired sauces. It’s all about harmony: the tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a glossy sauce that ties it all together.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken: Lean, versatile, and full of protein — chicken is the heart of this dish. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work perfectly if you prefer leaner meat.
Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C. It adds crunch, color, and nutrition.
Carrots: Naturally sweet and earthy, they balance the saltiness of the sauce and add that beautiful orange contrast.
Garlic & Ginger: The aromatic duo that defines most Asian-inspired dishes. Together, they bring warmth, spice, and depth of flavor.
Oyster Sauce: Adds that signature umami — deep, savory, and irresistible. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace it with mushroom sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you. Store any remaining stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long — it can make the vegetables soggy. You can also freeze it for up to a month, though the veggies may soften slightly upon reheating.

Common Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or chopped fresh chili for some heat.

• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle roasted cashews or peanuts on top for extra crunch.

• Sweet and Tangy: Mix a tablespoon of honey or orange juice into the sauce for a brighter, fruitier version.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan.

• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms — the more color, the better!

Pairing Recommendations

This stir-fry goes perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, quinoa, or noodles. If you’re watching carbs, serve it over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal. For drinks, pair it with green tea, ginger ale, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to balance the savory sauce.

Health Benefits

This dish is a nutritional powerhouse. The chicken provides lean protein that keeps you full and helps build muscle, while broccoli and carrots deliver vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost immunity and support digestion. It’s low in fat, rich in fiber, and packed with natural color — a sign of nutrient diversity. The ginger and garlic add immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits too, making this meal as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Conclusion

This Stir Fry Broccoli and Carrot with Chicken proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. It’s fast, colorful, and full of life — a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and fresh flavors in every bite. The chicken is juicy, the vegetables crisp, and the sauce ties everything together in one irresistible harmony. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick family dinner, this recipe never disappoints. It’s the kind of dish that turns “what’s for dinner?” into “can I have seconds?”