Name: Quick Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed); ½ tbsp sesame oil; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 garlic clove, (minced); 1 tbsp honey; Salt & pepper to taste

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Introduction

Some nights call for something simple, fast, and dependable — the kind of meal you can make without much planning but still feel good about sitting down to eat. This honey-garlic chicken and broccoli stir-fry is exactly that kind of recipe.

Tender chicken cooks quickly in a hot pan, then is coated in a light honey-garlic glaze that’s just sweet enough to balance the savory flavors. Broccoli adds freshness and texture, turning a short ingredient list into a complete, satisfying meal.

It’s the kind of dinner you can pull together in under 30 minutes without a sink full of dishes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without overthinking it.

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Why This Recipe Works

This stir-fry keeps things simple while focusing on balance and texture. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken, while garlic brings depth without overpowering the dish. Broccoli adds freshness and a slight crunch, helping round out the meal without needing extra ingredients. Cooking everything in one pan keeps the process straightforward and quick, making this a reliable weeknight recipe.

Ingredient Notes

A few small details can make a big difference in the final result.

Chicken breast — Lean and quick cooking, but be careful not to overcook to keep it tender.
Sesame oil — Adds a subtle nutty flavor that helps build depth.
Broccoli — Adds texture and freshness while making the dish more balanced.
Garlic — Provides aromatic depth and pairs naturally with honey.
Honey — Creates a light glaze that adds just enough sweetness without being heavy.

Simple ingredients work best when treated with care.

Tips for Best Results

Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
Add garlic toward the end to prevent burning.
Cook the broccoli just until tender, leaving a slight bite.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Small steps help maintain the right texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to adapt depending on what you have on hand.

Add soy sauce for a more savory flavor.
Swap broccoli for snap peas, green beans, or bell peppers.
Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a richer flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Make it once, then adjust to your taste.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If needed, add a small splash of water to loosen the glaze.

This dish is best fresh, but reheats well for quick meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, though it’s best fresh for the best texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes — just cook a little longer to remove excess moisture.

Is this recipe sweet?
It has a light sweetness, but you can reduce the honey if preferred.

Can I add sauce?
A splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce works well.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just cook in batches so the chicken browns properly.

Serving Suggestions

This honey garlic chicken pairs well with simple sides.

Steamed rice or brown rice
Cauliflower rice
Noodles
A simple cucumber salad
Steamed vegetables

Keeping sides simple lets the flavors stand out.

Make It Your Own

Once you’ve made this recipe once, it’s easy to adjust the balance of sweetness and savory flavor to your preference. Add more garlic for depth, a splash of soy sauce for umami, or extra vegetables for texture.

Simple recipes like this are meant to be flexible — adjust and make it your own.