Description
This Sticky Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry features crispy chicken, tender broccoli, bell peppers, and onions coated in a glossy sweet-savory sauce. Better than takeout, packed with protein, and ready in under 40 minutes.
Sticky Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry
When you’re craving takeout flavors but want something fresher and healthier, this Sticky Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry delivers everything you need. Crispy golden chicken pieces are tossed with tender-crisp broccoli, colorful bell peppers, and onions, then coated in a rich, glossy sauce made with soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic, and ginger.
The result is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors with plenty of texture in every bite. Served on its own or over steamed rice, this stir-fry is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and guaranteed to become a regular addition to your dinner rotation.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Nutrition Information
Per Serving
Calories: 430
Protein: 31g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 16g
Net Carbs: 28g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Better than takeout
- High in protein
- Crispy coated chicken
- Sweet and savory sauce
- Quick weeknight meal
- Family-friendly recipe
- Great for meal prep
- Packed with vegetables
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ lbs (680g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons oil, plus more as needed
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ red onion, sliced
For the Sticky Sauce
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup honey or brown sugar
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Slurry
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Ingredient Notes
Chicken Thighs
Provide the juiciest result and stay tender during cooking.
Broccoli
Adds freshness, color, and texture while soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Hoisin Sauce
Creates depth and a rich savory sweetness.
Orange Juice
Balances the sauce with bright citrus flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
Toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add a little more oil to the pan if needed.
Add:
- Broccoli
- Bell pepper
- Red onion
Cook for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a bowl combine:
- Soy sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Orange juice
- Hoisin sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Pour the sauce into the skillet.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl.
Add the slurry to the simmering sauce.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until thick, glossy, and slightly sticky.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Toss until every piece is coated in sauce.
Cook for another minute until heated through.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately on its own or over steamed rice.
Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Expert Tips
- Cook chicken in batches for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Meal Prep
Divide into individual containers with rice for easy lunches.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add sriracha or extra chili flakes.
Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Add roasted cashews before serving.
Low-Carb Version
Serve with cauliflower rice.
Extra Veggie Version
Add mushrooms, carrots, snap peas, or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes. Chicken breast works well and keeps the dish leaner.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. It reheats very well for meal prep.
Is the sauce very sweet?
The sauce is balanced between sweet and savory, but sweetness can be adjusted.
What can I serve with it?
Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice are all excellent options.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry combines crispy chicken, colorful vegetables, and a glossy sweet-savory sauce for a meal that’s every bit as satisfying as your favorite takeout order. Quick, flavorful, and packed with protein, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
