The moment I toss tender chicken and crisp broccoli into a sizzling pan, the irresistible aroma of homemade teriyaki sauce fills the kitchen—and somehow, it instantly lifts my spirits. This Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry has become my go-to when I want a meal that’s both comforting and quick, packed with bold flavors yet surprisingly simple to throw together. Whether you’re tired of fast food or craving a wholesome dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe hits the sweet spot between nutritious and indulgent, making it a crowd-pleaser every single time. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this vibrant, savory stir-fry to your table—no takeout necessary!
Why choose Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Simplicity meets flavor in this quick stir-fry, perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken and crisp broccoli deliver satisfying textures, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds a rich, savory-sweet punch. Versatile and wholesome, it’s an ideal way to enjoy a nutritious, restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss. Plus, it freezes beautifully for easy leftovers!
Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Ingredients
For the Chicken & Veggies
- Chicken breast – use boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy bites that soak up the teriyaki sauce perfectly.
- Broccoli florets – pick fresh, crisp crowns to balance the dish with vibrant crunch and color.
- Garlic cloves – finely minced to infuse the stir-fry with aromatic depth.
- Ginger root – freshly grated for a zesty kick that brightens every mouthful.
- Green onions – sliced thin to sprinkle freshness and a mild onion flavor.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- Soy sauce – the savory backbone of your homemade teriyaki, opt for low sodium to control saltiness.
- Brown sugar – adds just the right amount of caramelized sweetness that defines this sauce.
- Rice vinegar – a splash to introduce a subtle tang that balances the sweet and salty notes.
- Honey – a natural sweetener that also gives the sauce a beautiful glossy finish.
- Cornstarch – used to thicken the sauce so it clings perfectly to the chicken and broccoli.
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds – toasted for a nutty crunch and pretty finishing touch.
- Chili flakes – if you like a little heat, sprinkle sparingly for a gentle spice lift.
This fresh, wholesome combination of ingredients makes the Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry a quick and flavorful meal you’ll return to again and again.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Prep Chicken: Cut chicken breast into 1-inch pieces, pat dry, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Uniform cuts ensure each bite cooks evenly and stays succulent.
- Heat Pan: Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute, ensuring an instant sizzle when ingredients hit the pan.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken in a single layer, stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and no longer pink. Transfer to a plate to rest and seal in juices.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower heat to medium, then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant and bubbling, stirring constantly to prevent any bitterness.
For the Sauce:
- Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch until smooth. Ensure no lumps for a glossy, perfectly thickened teriyaki sauce.
- Combine: Return chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over, then gently toss pieces to coat evenly, letting the sauce bubble around each piece.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in fresh broccoli florets, cooking 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender and vividly green, ensuring vegetables retain snap and color.
- Thicken & Serve: Let sauce simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and clingy, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, then garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Optional: Sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Even Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout the stir-fry.
- High Heat Cooking: Use a hot pan to quickly sear the chicken and vegetables, preserving texture and locking in flavors without overcooking.
- Sauce Consistency: Whisk cornstarch thoroughly into the teriyaki sauce to avoid lumps and achieve that perfect glossy, clingy finish.
- Crisp-Tender Broccoli: Add broccoli last and cook just until bright green and tender-crisp to keep its fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook chicken in batches if needed to prevent steaming—overcrowding reduces sear and impacts texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Balance the teriyaki sauce by tasting and adjusting sweetness or acidity to your preference for a perfectly harmonious dish.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry
Fridge: Store your Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the dish’s quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.
Serving Tip: If stored properly, the dish can retain its delightful flavors and textures, offering a wholesome meal that feels just as comforting as the first serving!
Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Variations
Feel free to have fun and personalize your stir-fry with these exciting options that suit every palate.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, allowing the soy or teriyaki sauce to soak into the protein for a delicious alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for vibrant color and additional nutrients. Each veggie adds a delightful crunch to every bite!
- Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a sliced jalapeño while cooking for a zesty, spicy version that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Citrus Twist: Squeeze in fresh lime or orange juice before serving to brighten the dish with a fresh citrus flavor that dances on the palate.
- Noodle Fusion: Toss in cooked rice noodles or udon for a heartier meal, making it a comforting stir-fry perfect for noodle lovers.
- Sesame Flavor: Drizzle sesame oil over the finished dish for a nutty undertone that complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Honey Variation: Try maple syrup instead of honey to create a distinct flavor profile while still achieving that perfect sweetness.
These variations let you craft a dish that’s just right for you or your family, turning a simple stir-fry into a new favorite!
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken, broccoli, and aromatics (garlic and ginger) and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can whisk together the teriyaki sauce and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat your pan, add the chicken, and follow the instructions from there. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal that feels just as fresh and vibrant as if you made it all in one go!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry?
A delightful stir-fry deserves the perfect companions to make your meal truly shine.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant, fluffy texture soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully, elevating each bite.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These crispy pockets of flavor add a satisfying crunch and diversity to the meal’s texture!
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed with peanut sauce and sesame oil, these noodles create a delightful contrast to the savory stir-fry, connecting the Asian flavors.
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Stir-Fried Snap Peas: Slightly sweet and crisp, these vibrant additions bring freshness and a satisfying crunch to your plate.
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Miso Soup: Light and comforting, this broth-based soup is a perfect starter, enhancing the umami profile of your dinner.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crunchy and refreshing, the coolness of the cucumbers balances the warm, savory flavors for a perfect re-fresh in each bite!
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay offers fruity notes that complement the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, making it a refreshing sip alongside your meal.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For a decadent dessert, this warm, gooey cake adds a sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory richness of your stir-fry.
Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for making Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and firm to the touch. Avoid chicken with dark spots or a strong odor. Freshness ensures tender, juicy pieces that absorb the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftovers of this stir-fry, and how long will it keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. This keeps your flavorful meal ready for quick reheats during the week.
Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry, and if so, what’s the best method?
Absolutely! Freeze your stir-fry for up to 3 months. Here’s what I do: let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags. Remove as much air as possible, label with the date, and freeze flat for easy stacking. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove to maintain that fresh-from-the-wok taste.
Sometimes my broccoli turns mushy or dull after cooking—how can I avoid this?
The key is timing! Add broccoli last and cook it just 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat until it’s bright green and snap-tender. Overcooking breaks down the texture and dulls the color. Quick searing on high heat helps seal in that perfect crispness and vibrant hue every time.
Is Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry safe for pets or suitable for special diets?
This dish is not recommended for pets due to the soy sauce’s sodium content and ingredients like garlic and ginger, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. For dietary needs, you can easily swap soy sauce for tamari (gluten-free) or use low-sodium varieties. Adjust the sweetness or omit honey for a vegan version with tofu substituting the chicken. The recipe is flexible, so feel free to customize!
Easy Juicy Teriyaki Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken breast into 1-inch pieces, pat dry, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Add chicken in a single layer, stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and no longer pink.
- Lower heat to medium, then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Return chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over, then gently toss pieces to coat evenly.
- Stir in fresh broccoli florets, cooking 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Let sauce simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and clingy, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat, then garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
